d 


LIBRARY 

OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA. 

GIFT  OF 
THE   FAMILY  OF   REV.   DR.  GEORGE   MOOAR 

Class 


773 


SADALPHA; 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE. 


BY 


,J,  BRADFORD  COX,  M.  D, 


MERCURY  STEAM   PRINT 
SAN  JOSE. 


Entered  according  to  Act  or  Congress  in  the  year  1879,  by  j.  B.  Cox, 
in  the  Office  of  the-  Librarian  of  Congress  at   Washington. 


t    PS 


IfSrO 


PREFACE. 


In  presenting  this  little  book  for  publication  the 
author  is  aware  of  many  of  its  deficiencies.  But 
with  a  hope  that  it  may  be  the  means  of  exciting  a 
desire  for  a  more  perfect  life  than  many  people  now 
live,  and  that  it  may  afford  pleasure  during  its 
perusal,  indulgence  is  craved  for  its  imperfections. 

A  recent  criticism  on  the  "  Poetry  of  the  Familiar,  " 
in  a  leading  literary  journal,  seems  to  express  the 
tendency  of  poetic  taste  at  present  in  the  following 
words:  "  In  this  art  movement  we  see  just  what  has 
been  going  on  in  poetry  and  fiction.  Poets  and  ro- 
mancists  began  by  believing  that  only  romantic  and 
picturesque  scenes  were  worthy  of  their  muse.  They 
delighted  in  the  supernatural;  in  the  impossible,  re 
mote  and  extravagant;  in  the  grand,  heroic  and  ap 
palling.  But  we  all  know  how  the  romantic  gradu 
ally  shifted  into  the  merely  picturesque,  and  then  the 


123093 


4  PREFACE. 

picturesque  into  the  familiar,  until  at  last  it  has.  been 
discovered  that  even  the  most  homely  scenes  and  ob 
jects  often  possess  every  attribute  of  poetry." 

This  poem  contains  nothing  supernatural,  impossi 
ble,  remote  or  appalling;  and  if  the  scenes  and  in 
cidents  portrayed  fall  short  of  the  beautiful,  or  fail 
to  entertain,  it  is  altogether  the  fault  of  an  inexperi 
enced  pen. 

That  there  is-much  beauty  in  scenes  of  every  day 
life  is  beyond  doubt  an  established  fact.  And  if  we 
do  not  see  and  perceive  it  the  fault  lies  in  the  instruc 
tion  of  our  eyes  and  minds  rather  than  in  the  scenes 
themselves.  -J-  ^>.  C. 

SAN  JOSE,  Gal.,  Oct.  11-th,  1875). 


""•'  What  though  we  may  not  turn  again 

To  shores  of  childhood  that  we  leave- 
Are  those  old  signs  we  followed  vain  r 
Can  guides  so  oft  found  true  deceive  < 

"Oh,  sail  we  to  the  south  or  north, 
Oh,  sail  we  to  the  east  or  west, 

The  port  from  which  we  first  put  forth 
Is  our  heart's  home— is  our  life's  best.' 


I   DEDICATE  THESE   PAGES 

TO  THE  MEMORY  CF  ONE  WHOSE  MORAL  EXCELLENCE 
LARGELY  CONTRIBUTED  TO  THEIR  PRODUCTION  ;  WHOSE  RELIGIOUS 

LIFE  WAS  ONE  OF  BEAUTY  AND  CONSISTENCY;  AND  WHO  OFTEN  EXPRESSED  A  DESIRfc 

TO  DO  SOMETHING  MORE  TO   BENEFIT  MANKIND.        THIS  BRIEF  POEM 

tS  OFFERED  AS  A  PART  OF  THE  FRUIT  OF  HER 

SHORT.  THOUGH  WELL  SPENT  LIFE. 


PART  i. 


INTRODUCTION. 


;|AR  out  upon  the  western  point  of  land, 
Where  calm  Pacific  throws  her  loving  arms 
About  the  neck  of  Mendocino's  Cape, 
•  Whose  rocky  brow  seems  pleased  for  this  embrace, 
I    Stood  youthful  Angus  with  his  flowing  hair 
Kissed  by  the  breeze,  that  played  a  hymn  of  praise 
Among  the  rolling  billows,  and  the  rocks 
Its  constant  harp.     The  soul-inspiring  scene 
Now  charms  his  inexperienced,  tender  mind, 
And  transports  thought  beyond  the  narrow  range 
Of  childhood's  home,  or  youthful  fancy's  dream. 


TO  SAD  ALP  PI  A;  OR, 

He  sees,  as  'twere,  immensity  of  space 
Spread  out  before  him  in  the  rolling  deep, 
And  wonders  what  its  depths  may  now  contain. 
He  little  knows,  so  young — scarce  nineteen  years- 
The  mysteries  of  its  deep  and  hidden  bed. 

Much  less  he  knows 

How  great  the  commerce  of  her  might}7  ships. 
And  now  he  sees  upon  the  vast  expanse, 
Far  out  from  land  as  almost  lost  from  view, 
In  midst  of  boundless  deep,  a  whitened  sail. 
He  wonders  not  of  what  its  mission  be : 
If  trade  with  foreign  lands,  he  knows  it  not: 
If  plunder,  piracy  perchance  its  aim, 
He  thinks  not  of  the  dark  and  bloody  deeds 
Its  crew  may  oft  have  done.     He  sees  alone 
The  placid  beauty  of  the  tranquil  scene. 
^Tis  Nature's  voice  that  now  he  hears  and  heeds; 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE. 

She  speaks  in-  varied  tone  to  his  young  heart. 
Beneath  his  feet  the  surging  billows  roar 
And  beat  against  the  everlasting  hills 
And  rocks,  as  they  for  cycles  now  have  done; 
Thus  making  thorough  bass  for  all  the  songs 
And  melodies  which  Nature  here  can  sing. 
Tis  deep  and  loud  enough  for  many  tunes 
That  form  a  beauteous  medley,  speaking  forth 
The  voice  of  Nature  since  the  morning  stars 
Sang  first  their  glorious  hymn  of  love  and  praise. 
The  song  that  now  he  hears,  as  pensively 
He  sits  him  down  'mid  ferns  and  waving  grass, 
Is  one  whose  melody  the  sea-birds  make, 
Now  high  and  shrill  above  the  alto  tones 
Of  various  tribes  of  anseres  floating  near; 
While  from  the  many  rocks  not  far  away 
Comes  forth  the  tenor  and  the  second  bass 


12  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

From  out  the  throats  of  hundreds  of  the  race 
Of  lions,  seals,  as  they  come  forth  to  warm 
Their  shining  backs  beneath  the  noonday  sun; 
While  constantly  deep  organ  tones,  from  rocks 
And  rolling  waves,  nil  up  and  bear  on  high 
The  perfect  harmony. 

He  listens  more  attentively: 
The  voices  vary  as  he  hears  each  tone 
Express  a  something  more  than  music  sweet. 
A  feeling,  a  desire,  perchance  a  thought 
Leaps  forth  with  each  distinct  and  separate  tone 
Of  this  grand  chorus  of  the  mighty  deep. 
Loud  and  strong  it  now  bursts  forth 
In  animated  strains,  that  seem  to  say 
All  Nature  joins  in  one  glad  hymn  of  praise. 
And  then  a  cadence  seems  to  come,  and  short 
Staccato  tones,  with  their  untold  surprise, 


A  VOYAGE  OF 

Blend  sweetly  into  other  strains  that  move; 
Allegro  maestoso,  which  now  bring 
A  striving  for  a  great  and  noble  end 
Within  that  breast  which  their  grand  import  feels. 
And  now  a  modulation  seems  to  come 
Adagio,  in  a  mournful  minor  key, 
And  with  it  sad  reflections  o'er  the  past. 
He  turns  to  view  the  land. 
Far  to  the  east  extends  in  Kainbow  form 
A  Kidge  with  green  and  smooth  and  grassy  top; 
With  gently  convex  surf  ace  to  the  north; 
Its  lower  border  fringed  with  canons  deep, 
Made  dark  and  wild  by  dense  and  sombre  growth 
Of  firs  and  pines,  madronas  and  liveoaks; 
Amid  whose  cool  inviting  shades  wild  deer 
And  grouse  and  California  lions  rind 
A  safe  retreat.     Far  in  the  distant  east 


14  SAD  ALPHA;  OK, 

Mount  up  great  snow-capped  peaks  which  seem  to  say, 

The  farther  up  from  earth  we  raise  our  heads 

The  purer  arid  more  peaceful  we  become. 

The  hoary-headed  parents  seem  they  now 

Of  all  their  varied  loving  progenj^ — 

The  smaller  peaks  uplifting  verdant  heads. 

What  hundreds  of  these  children  have  they  borne 

And  scattered  here  and  there,  until  they  seem 

A  vast  assembled  throng  of  human  heads. 

Perchance  they  cow  in  awe  and  reverence  stand, 

As  youth  before  a  hoary-headed  sire, 

To  hear  what  lessons  come  from  wisdom's  lips. 

Hark!  hear  a  sage  with  whitened  locks, 

In  tones  so  deep  that  all  the  throng  may  hear, 

Speak  forth  and  say,  as  father  to  a  child, 

Once  on  a  time,  far  down  in  early  years, 

Before  mankind  was  known  upon  the  earth, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  15 

When  I  was  young  and  in  my  youthful  prime, 
Then  you  had  first  your  birth.     Centuries  your  heads. 
Scarce  peeped  above  the  briny,  rolling  deep, 
Which  dashed  its  surging  breakers  ceaselessly 
About  my  isolated  form. 

Then  life  came  forth 
And  made  abode  upon  my  barren  sides. 
Then,  too,  within  the  midst  of  impure  deep 
Began  to  teem  stiU  other  life,  until 
When  you  emerged  above  the  water's  waste 
This  life  in  all  its  forms  seemed  everywhere 
Itself  to  reproduce. 

By  slow  degrees,  through  cycles  dim  and  long, 
By  fires  that  burned  within  my  throbbing  breast, 
I  grew  to  manhood's  prime. 
You,  my  first  born,  long  I  watched 
Amid  the  surging  billows,  which  at  times 


1 6  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Would  near  submerge  you  from  my  anxious  sight. 

How  long,  how  long,  I  can  not  tell  how  long, 

Ere  man  came  forth  to  dwell  upon  us  here. 

To  me  the  time  since  first  he  came  to  us 

Seems  but  a  moment  of  my  life. 

He  comes  and  goes  much  like  the  tender  grass 

That  decks  your  verdant  brows. 

Young  Angus  shuddered  as  he  heard  this  voice 

Concerning  that  of  which  he  formed  a  part. 

He  wondered  if  indeed  the  sage  be  wise. 

He  fain  would  know  what  else  may  be  in  man 

Besides  the  vital  force  that  makes  him  grow 

In  stature  as  the  living  grass  or  tree. 

He  looks  within  his  inmost  soul  and  finds 

A  thirst  for  wisdom,  which  is  never  quenched, 

Except  he  drink  from  out  the  purest  fount. 

Oh  Wisdom,  infinite,  he  cries  aloud, 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LI  PR.  17 

Hive  me  to  drink  that  I  may  thirst  no  more! 

He  turns  to  mingle  with  his  fellow  man, 

And  ask  of  him,  if  this  be  all  of  life? 

He  watches  man  from  early  dawn  of  love 

To  its  fruition,  happiness  and  peace; 

Till  death  conies  on  to  claim  its  own  'mid  tears, 

And  weeping,  bleeding  hearts  that  know  no  rest. 

And  then  he  turns  and  asks  the  hoary  sage. 

If  life  be  ended  when  we  cease  to  live? 


PREPARATION. 

sEHOLD  two  tender  loving  souls, 

'Mid  joy  and  mirth  and  glee, 
While  showers  of  blessing  love  controls 
Sail  forth  on  life's  rough  sea. 

Oh,  what  will  be  their  doubtful  fate? 

What  storms— what  calms  be  theirs? 
How  reach  their  port?  too  soon?  too  late'-; 

In  answer  to  what  prayers? 

Shall  joy  attend  them  on  their  way? 

Shall  grief  be  theirs?     Who  knows: 
Shall  peace  crown  evening  every  day'J. 

\ud  sweet  be  their  repose '1 


A  VO  YA  GE  OF  LIFE .  1 9 

O,  happy  trusting  pair,  to  be 

Thus  joined  iri  heart  and  hand! 
How  gladly  friends  give  speed  to  thee, 

While  watching  from  the  strand! 

Their  boat  steers  proudly  for  the  main, 

And  friends  with  voices  clear 
Repeat  the  joyous,  glad  refrain. 
•'  Long  life  to  them — so  dear." 

This  sea  of  life  they  soon  will  prove, 

Not  one  which  ever  bears 
All  placid  scenes  and  ships  that  move 

As  smoothly  on  as  theirs! 

Each  happy  in  the  other's  love, 

They  feast,  they  drink  deep  bliss: 
They  revel  as  blest  souls  above 

And  all  seems  joy  like  this. 


20  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Oh,  happy,  joyous,  loving  pair! 

No  stain  of  sin  now  mars 
Your  highest  ecstacy;  for  prayer 

Brought  pardon  from  the  stars. 

Each  sought  the  Savior  years  agone, 
And  pardoned  through  His  blood, 

They  strived  to  live  as  He  alone 
Has  ordered  in  His  Word. 

How  oft  they  failed  He  surely  knew, 

For  penitent  each  came 
At  eventide,  and  meekly  through 

The  power,  in  Jesus'  name, 

Begged  mercy  for  the  sinning  soul 
And  wisdom  from  on  high; 

And  as  the  days  and  years  might  roll 
That  He  would  be  near  by; 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LI  PR.  21 

That  His  own  presence  would  be  near 

In  every  act  and  word, 
And  heart  be  kept  as  fountain  clear 

That  moves  but  is  not  heard. 

With  hearts  thus  pure  they  first  had  met 

At  feast  of  intellect, 
Where  teachers  Joint  Convention  set, 

To  plan  how  best  to  act. 

To  venture  on  some  new  laid  plan 

Of  how  to  train  the  mind; 
And  thus  by  lifting  youthful  man 

To  benefit  mankind. 

To  talk  of  methods  and  of  rules, 

Of  aspirations  bright, 
Of  how  to  manage  country  schools 

And  train  the  youth  aright. 


SADALPHA;   OR, 

They  talked  these  matters  o'er  and  o'er. 

And  ranch  that  appertained 
To  other  things  than. those  of  lore 

And  how  the  youth  be  trained. 

They  talked  of  nature  and  of  flowers. 

Surrounding  lakes  and  trees, 
Of  valleys  fair,  and  leisure  hours. 

Of  life— its  stormy  seas. 

And  when  the  sessions  daily  closed, 

And  lunch  and  dinner  o'er, 
A  horseback  ride  was  then  proposed 

And  taken  as  before: 

Through  vales,  o'er  hills,  'mid pine  woods  sweet, 

By  gushing  springs  so  clear; 
Now  mauzanita  blossoms  greet, 

Nor  leaf  is  brown  and  sear. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LI  PR.  23 

For  joyous  Springtime  \vith  its  flowers, 

Bedecking  bush  and  lawn, 
Invites  to  wild  and  perfumed  bowers 

As  evening  shades  come  on. 

Thus  pleasantly  the  time  was  passed: 

The  three  days'  session  done; 
A  store  of  knowledge  was  amassed 

As  how  the  school  should  run; 

As  how  this  one  and  that  had  tried 

The  boisterous  to  restrain; 
How  indolence  was  rectified 

And  duty  made  quite  plain. 

Thus  interchanging  thoughts  the  while 

Of  work  and  labor  true, 
They  learned  to  love; — the  time  beguile 

As  youthful  lovers  do-. 


24  SADALPHA;  OR, 

They  talked  of  Springtime,  hopes  and  gains, 

Of  usefulness  and  toil, 
When  coming  years  should  crown  their  pains. 

With  harvest  of  the  soiL 

They  sowed  good  seed,  then  why  not  wait 

Till  harvest  time  should  come, 
And  gather  sheaves  both  small  and  great. 

Rewards  of  work  well  done? 

The  future  seemed  all  bright  and  fair, 

Nor  clouds  athwart  their  sky; 
Buoyant  of  soul,  a  hopeful  pair, 

No  tear  to  dim  the  eye. 

For  weeks— yea,  months — this  pleasure  ran — 

Delightful  stream  of  love; 
God's  providence  approved  the  plan 

And  sanctioned  from  above. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  25 

Not  spoken  love — at  first  quite  dim ; 

So  timid,  half  afraid; 
Then  "  sister  would  she  be  to  him," 

How  sweet  first  promise  made ! 

A  ' '  sister, ' '  but  ' '  no  more  P ' — Just  here 

A  "  brother's  love"  was  pledged: 
"  I'll  take  you  as  my  '  sister  dear' 

Till  fuller  love  be  fledged." 

But  sickness  came,  the  manly  form 

Was  stricken  near  to  death ; 
For  days  and  weeks  contagion's  storm 

Raged  o'er  him  with  its  breath. 

A  much  loved  letter  sent  away 

To  her,  from  his  sick  room, 
In  distant  home  drove  friends  astray 

For  fear  infection's  doom. 


26  SAD  ALPHA;  OK, 

She  read  it  through,  how  anxiously 
None  else  but  she  could  tell; 

A  peaceful  thought  came  hopefully 
That  "brother"  might  get  well. 

When  convalescence  scarce  was  o'er, 

Proud  Science  for  his  aim. 
He  leaves  the  bright  Pacific  shore 

To  seek  and  delve  for  fame. 

With  fond  farewells  from  all  his  friends. 

And  "  sisters"  too,  save  one, 
He  bids  adieu  to  seek  amends 

For  ravages  just  done. 

Goes  anxiously,  with  sad  regret, 

At  leaving  thus  her  face, 
Whose  image  hovered  round  him  yet 

And  lingered  at  the  place 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  27 

Where  fevered  fancy  oft  had  gone, 
Through  mountains  green  and  fair, 

By  many  a  gurgling  stream  sat  down, 
That  face  was  ever  there. 

And  even  when  in  death's  embrace. 

So  near  that  few  came  by, 
His  deep  delirium  saw  that  face 

With  pity  in  its  eye. 

He  called  her  oft  in  loving  tone, 

He  whispered  that  sweet  name; 
Attendants  heard  him— heard  him  moan, 

And  wondered  if  she  came. 

She  came  in  spirit,  not  in  form; 

She  came  and  soothed  him  so; 
She  banished  all  the  loathsome  storm 

And  cleansed  him  pure  as  snow. 


28  SADALPHA;  OR, 

In  fancy  thus  he  traversed  o'er 
Bright  scenes,  where  months  ago, 

In  respite  from  their  work  of  lore 
They  loved  so  oft  to  go. 

But  recollections  such  as  these, 

From  well  or  fevered  brain, 
Proved  recompense,  to  somewhat  ease 

The  parting  andrits  pain. 

To  recollect  these  happier  times, 

To  travel  once  again 
By  lake  and  stream,  whose  murmuring  chimes 

Wrote  music  without  pen ; 

To  walk  again  through  pine  woods  sweet, 

To  climb  the  mountain's  brow, 
To  wander  where  the  waters  meet, 

Seemed  dear  to  him  just  now. 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  29 

For  in  the  busy  city's  strife, 

The  Golden  Gate  so  nigh, 
He  walks  alone,  though  surging  life 

Is  hurrying,  rustling  by. 

He  visits  places  then  of  note, 

He  sees  and  is  not  seen ; 
So  small  a  thing,  a  useless  mote, 

A  something  which  has  been. 

A  person,  living,  thinking,  loved, 

A  consciousness,  of  what? 
Of  having  been,  of  having  moved 

Around  one  little  spot ! 

Of  having  loved  one  beauteous  face, 

Distinct  from  all  seen  now. 
O,  could  it  come  from  out  its  place, 

With  pure  and  noble  brow, 


30  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

And  penetrate  this  jostling  crowd, 
And  turn  its  eyes  toward  me, 

How  sweet  'twould  be  with  step  so  proud 
To  walk  and  converse  free ! 

O,  could  not  this  one  boon  be  given, 
I       To  see  her  ere  he  start? 

'T would  be  to  him  foretaste  of  Heaven 
To  embrace  before  they  part. 

But  no!  to-morrow  brings  the  day 

On  which  his  vessel  sails 
For  Panama;  and  he  must  say 

His  farewell  through  the  mails. 

That  night  he  wrote,  ah,  yes,  how  w^ll 
None  else  but  she  could  know! 

Emotions  deep  the  bosom  swell. 
A  heaving  to  and  fro 


A  VO  YA  GE  Of  L1PE .  3  D 

Of  love  and  hope,  of  doubt  and  fear, 

Uncertainty  and  grief. 
Oh,  could  e'en  present  be  made  clear 

'Twould  bring  the  soul  relief. 

"  This  life  has  much  in  store  for  me; 

Much  more  than  I  now  see 
Can  come  through  my  scant  lore  to  me,. 
I'm  now  unworthy  thee. 

"  So  when  I've  climbed  the  giddy  hight^ 

And  wrought  in  science'  dome, 
Will  my  dear  sister  to  me  write, 
And  welcome  letters  home 

^  From  her  dear  brother  far  away  V 

If  so  my  task  will  be 
Made  light  indeed,  and  on  my  way 
I'll  write,  oft  write  to  thee." 


PART  2, 


ON  THE  PACIFIC. 


ut  on  the  ocean  wave  sailing  along; 

y  should  I  not  now  change  my  song? 
Steady  the  billows  roll,  oh,  so  high ! 

^Steady  the  heart  sends  sigh  after  sigh. 
T 
Chasing  each  other  the  waves  come  on; 

Chasing  each  other  the  faces  now  gone 
Come  in  remembrance  to  sadden  the  scene; 
Thus  to  be  leaving  them; — Oh,  how  keen 


3-4  SADALPHA;  OR\ 

Breaks  out  the  anguish  from  the  depths  of  the  soul!' 
Break  up  the  crested  waves  as  inward  they  roll; 
Break  up  glad  scenes  of  home— now  they  come  near; 
Break  up  old  friendships  so  long  held  dear;- 
Breaks  up  the  rocky  beach?     0!  no,  no! 
Firmly  it  withstands  the  tides  high  or  low. 
Breaks  up  a  "sister's  love?"     Oh!  no,  no! 
Breaks  up  a  "brother's  love?"     No!  surely  no! 
Firmly  they  withshand  the  rolling  of  the  tide, 
The  busy  throng  that  jostles  round  on  every  side. 
Sailing  on  the  ocean — the  calm  Pacific  fair, 
Now  away  from  breakers—scarce  a  breath  of  air. 
Rolling  now  the  rollers,  Oh,  so  slowly  on! 
Coming  not  from  stormy  climes ;  coming,-  coming,  gone ! 
Noiselessly  they  come  and  go,  ever  rolling  high! 
Ship's  machinery  humming  keeps  time  with  hearts' 
lone  sigh. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  35 

All  quietness  and  grandeur! 

Save  sailors  here  and  there, 
Preparing  for  the  voyage, 

Dead  stillness  fills  the  air. 

The  breakers  far  behind  us, 

The  land  grows  dim  to  view, 
Thus  seeming  to  remind  us 

Of  friendships  fond  and  true; 

Of  faces  in  the  distance 

That  seem  to  say  farewell; 
Of  many  scenes  and  incidents 

That  now  the  heart  do  spell, 

And  bind  us  to  the  fading  shore 

That  soon  will  disappear. 
The  faces  loved  in  days  of  yore 

Seem  now  to  be  more  dear. 


36  SADALPHA;  OR, 

As  memory  turns  to  view  again 

Loved  places  where  we  trod, 
And  recollect  on  hill  in  glen 

Bright  scenes  spread  out  where  God 

Would  draw  the  soul  toward  Him  again 

From  whom  it  wanders  oft — 
Yes,  wanders  into  hell's  dark  den 

Until  it  may  be  lost. 

Bright  recollections  of  the  past 
Come  now  the  heart  to  thrill. 

Sweet  memories!  yes,  they  come,  how  fast 
The  soul  the  thoughts  to  fill! 

Some  come  with  gentle  tread,  and  steal 

So  soft,  so  quietly, 
Upon  our  musings  that  we  feel 

Their  impress  peacefully. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  37 

Some  come  with  longings  to  return 

And  be  again  with  those 
Whose  love  now  follows  every  turn 

Our  wandering  feet  may  choose. 

Some  bring  a  sigh  for  misspent  time, 

But  others  bring  relief; 
Some  bring  a  joy,  while  others  chime 

The  deep-toned  bells  of  grief. 

Oh!  happy,  peaceful,  pensive  hour, 

Thy  moments  come  and  go 
As  sunshine  bright  or  April  shower, 

Summer's  heat  or  Winter's  snow! 

Some  moments  freeze  the  tender  heart 

Toward  all  mankind;  so  cold, 
So  selfishly,  each  acts  his_part 

That  many  things  untold 


38  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Are  treasured  in  the  inmost  soul, 
And  there  deep  hidden  lay ; 

But  now  our  memories  o'er  them  roll 
And  bring  them  bright  as  day 

To  re-enact  the  scenes'gone  by 
With  all  their  joy  and  pain, 

And  vividly  they  come  so  nigh 
The  present  we  disdain. 

Thus  musing  till  e'en  past  grew  dim, 

His  voyage  just  begun, 
A  well-known  voice  now  greeted  him, 

A  hand  was  grasped  by  one 

In  former  days  a  better  heart, 
Whose  vain  attempt  at  wealth, 

In  mines'  as  well  as  healing  art, 
Had  only  brought  poor  health 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  19 

Through  dissipation  long  indulged, 

And  now  he  seeks  relief 
Trorn  horrors — need  theyHbe  divulged? 

Oh,  demons  sweet  is  grief 

^Compared  to  terror  and  suspense, 

Of  madness  from  the  bowl ! 
What  pleasure  that  can  recompense 

This  torture  of  the  soul? 

"Oh!  man,  why  desecrate  the  mind? 

Why  wallow  in  the  mire, 
And  in  damnation  surely  bind 

Thy  foul  to  eternal  lire? 

He  sought  a  reformation  when, 

Through  changes  of  the  trip, 
He  should  be  made  himself  again 

By  life  on  board  the  ship. 


4o  SAD  ALPHA;  OR\ 

He  has  a  fortune  in  the  East, 

Some  land,  a  rich  estate, 
Is  left  from  father  late  deceased, 

Far  in  old  Keystone  State. 

"  But  what  brings  you,  so  young,"  he  said,. 
"  To  leave  the  Golden  State, 
Where  home  and  friends  and  much  might  aid 
A  promise  to  be  great?'' 

"  Sir,  this  is  why  you  see  me  go," 

The  youth  at  once  replied; 
*•  I've  labored  hard,  as  you  may  know. 

The  money  to  provide 

That  I  might  fit  myself  to  be 

Of  use  to  fellow  man, 
Far  more  than  in  the  school  I  seer 

Or  working  with  the  hand. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  4* 

And  so  I've  wrought  most  ardently 

These  past  three  years  or  more, 
And  all  my  wages  carefully 

Laid  by  in  future  store. 

For  this  my  trip  to  Bellvue  Halls, 

Where  I  in  time  shall  be 
Prepared,  like  you,  to  attend  the  calls 

Of  sick  humanity." 

1  Ah!  foolish  youth!"  the  sage  replied:: 
"  How  strange  your  choice  to  me! 
Far  better  for  you  had  you  died 
In  early  infancy, 

Than  thus  to  wear  your  life  away 

At  call  of  come  who  will, 
And  never  know  by  night  or  day 

What  hours  repose  shall  fill. 


42  'SADALPHA;  OR, 

Par  better  had  you  been  content 

To  teach  a  country  school, 
"Where  every  moment  is  well  spent 

And  leisure  comes  by  rule. 

But  since  you  go  and  can't  turn  back. 

Perhaps  'tis  vain  for  me 
To  try  dissuasion  from  the  track 

Of  pain  and  misery. 

But  when  you've  followed  many  years 

Disease  and  death  and  woe, 
With  all  their  ravages  and  tears, 

Perhaps  you'll  say  'tis  so." 

But  say  when  did  you  leave  the  once  fair  mountain 

town, 

"With  its  adjacent  hills  and  its  valleys  now  brown? 
And  say,  how  are  old  friends  and  acquaintances  there-? 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  43 

And  pray  how  your  young  "  schoolnia'am,"    so  gay 
and  so  fair? 

And  how  was  your  preceptor,  the  good  Doctor  D , 

Whose  only  great  fault  was  a  jolly  good  spree? 
Thus  oft  they  conversed  as  now  onward  they   sailed. 
When  eating  and  sleeping  and  reading  had  failed; 
Now  pacing  the  deck  that  the  time  might  go  by, 
Or  watching  alone  for  the  wonders  that  lie 
Far  down  in  the  depths  of  the  fathomless  sea, 
So  wonderful  now  for  its  transparency; 
Often  looking  for  laud  that  was  seldom  now  seen, 
Or  viewing  the  star  depths,  so  calm  and  serene; 
Now  wondering  how,  from  the  expanse  of  Heaven, 
The  Ruler  beholds  our  green  earth  as  it's  driven 
Around  our  own  sun,  which  to  us  seems  so  bright, 
And  yet  from  His  Home  is  a  mere  speck  of  light. 
How  small  is  the  earth  when  compared  to  these  suns, 


44  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Which  soften  the  darkness  as  night  o'er  earth   runs! 

Ah!  vainly  would  we  with  our  finite  eyesight, 

Were  we  placed  at  the  centre  of  infinite  light, 

Endeavor  to  find  such  a  planet  as  earth, 

With  it3  show  and  splendor,  its  seeming  great  worth. 

Yet  Infinite  Wisdom  views  all  He  hath  made, 

The  suns  and  the  planets  and  satellites  staid 

Revolving  so  grandly,  while  each  in  its  place 

Permits  every  other  its  journey  to  trace 

Without  molestation,  still  influence  is  shed 

By  each  on  its  neighbor,  while  surely  they're  led 

In  perfect  accord  with  the  Ruler's  great  plan, 

Thus  pointing  a  moral  to  weak,   sinful  man. 

But  onward  for  days,  through  the  sunshine  and  rain, 

The  ship  plows  along  o'er  the  blue,  rolling  main; 

Now  Lower  California  has  come  and  has  gone, 

With  its  bold  Cape  St.  Lucas,  so  clear  in  the   dawn. 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  45 

Manzanillo,  its  tempting  and  tropical  sight, 

Has  left  in  the  memory  bright  pictures  of  night. 

With  its  bald  though  green  hills  as  so  snugly  they  lay 

With  light-house  and  canons  around  the  smooth  bay. 

But  beautiful — aye,  what  a  joy  to  behold  it! 

A  sunset  in  Autumn  with  Him  to  unfold  it, 

Who  is  beauty  itself,  and  who  paints,  oh,  so   bright, 

That  artists  ne'er  equal  in  visions  of  light! 

A  sunset  on  ocean,  with  tropical  air 

To  bring  forth  each  outline  and  make  it  more  fair. 

A  scene  to  enjoy  which  the  heart  we  must  raise 

To  the  source  of  all  beauty  and  tune  to    His   praise. 

Such  a  scene  was  presented  ere  Panama  gained. 

The  day  had  been  showery;  so  oft  had  it  rained 

That  sailors  work  scrubbing  the  deck  was  not  needed, 

Nor  furling  the  sails,  for  this  had  preceded 

Approach  of  the  evening,  which  now  coming  on 


46  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Seemed  hallowed,  for  Sabbath  day  now   nearly   gone 
Brings  its  eve  on  so  gently  to  mind  ere  it  sleep, 
Favoring  silence  and  reverie  and  memories  deep 
Of  childhood,  of  Springtime,  of  friends  that  are  gone, 
Of  other  scenes  far  away — how  they  conae  on! 
Now  flooding  the  soul  as  if  dreamland  were  here 
To  carry  us  back  over  many  a  glad  year. 


REFLECTIONS, 

AINS  quickly  vanishing, 
Joys  e'er  replenishing, 
'  7 :  *  Ever  surviving  the  brightest  and  best 
°^         For  manrs  true  happiness, 
Pleasure  and  blessedness, 
Resting  in  wisdom — how  sweet  is  that  rest! 

Past  scenes  come  peacefully, 

Come  they  so  quietly, 
Thus  are  they  filling  the  heart  full  of  love. 

Coming  now  joyfully, 

Coming  then  tearfully , 
Coming  from  whence  are  they?     Ah!  from  above! 


.48  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

They  from  the  soul  seem  welling — 

Seem  to  the  heart  now  telling 
^Sweetly  and  calmly  of  past  times  so  dear. 

Oh!  how  they  thrill  the  heart! 

May  they  not  soon  depart. 
'Stay,  pleasant  memories,  ever  stay  near. 

Stay  to  enrich  the  soul, 
While  round  us  billows  roll — 

Billows  of  turmoil  from  great  human  strife- 
Hallowed  thy  influence  be 
O'er  all  life's  stormy  sea, 

Never  forsaking  me  through  endless  life. 


A  SUNSET. 


\f^KjpUT  now  behold-! 

•  |>|A.J|;  In  yonder  western  sky  paints  God  a  scene 


7        More  beautiful  than  man  has  e'er  beheld. 
'Or  memories  of  artist  e'er  can  paint. 
No  speech  of  earth  can  equal  its  portrayal. 
Archways  of  cloud  now  rise  in  glorious  light, 
Resplendence  all  athwart  the  glowing  sky. 
Here  northward  mounts  a  mighty  cumulus 
On  mountain  range  of  other  rolling  clouds, 
As  bright  as  with  the  heat  of  incandescence. 


50  SADALPHA;  OR, 

They  rise  in  range,  beyond  and  over  range, 
And  peaks  still  yet  beyond,  until  away 
In  obscure  distance,  darkening  shades  of  night,. 
There  form  befitting  background  to  the  scene; 
While  here  and  there  are  growing  shadows  as 
Of  valleys  fair  between  the  beauteous  hills; 
And  then  again  of  canons  deep  that  delve 
And  split  the  mountain  sides. 

Wild  with  deep  conf  asicn. 
And  terrible  with  dark  abysses  that 
Seem  now  to  pierce  the  wondrous  ocean's  depths 
And  yet  so  constantly  a  change  coines  o'er 
That  each  new  look  brings  forth  new  beauties. 
Ah!  ne'er  was  mountain  scene  like  this! 

There  southward  lay  more  tranquil  forms. 
A  stratus  spreads  far  o'er  the  water's  waste 
And  brings  to  view  a  second  ocean  calm, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  51 

With  coasts  and  bays  and  wide  expanse — it  seems 
'Twere  hung  in  air.     Its  ships  wax  great  then  change 
As  if  to  mountains,  quiet  and  serene. 
Now  rivers  form  and  flow  to  distant  shores, 
Thus  cheating  fancy,  which  now  sees  instead 
One  vast  and  beauteous,  changeful  landscape  fair, 
With  here  and  there  small  hills  of  doubtful  green. 
Ah!  see  again!  beyond  in  distance  dim 
This  phantom  ocean  spreads  itself  once  more, 
And  soon  again  transforms  to  landscape  bright, 
With  town  and  village  interspersed;  and  broad 
Highway  still  girt  between,  on  which  bright  forms 
Now  move  and  pass,  and  slowly  wax  in  size 
Until  great  monsters  to  the  sight  they  seem. 

And  now  behold  the  sinking  sun 
Half  hidden  in  the  deep — the  centre  piece 
Of  all  this  glorious  scene — 'mid  gorgeous  gates 


52  SAD  ALPHA;   OR, 

And  bright  archways  of  cloud  that  multiply 
To  almost  an  infinitude  of  numbers. 

One  grand  triumphal  archway 
Spreads  o'er  him  as  he  slowly  disappears. 
The  bright  blue  sky  beyond  is  only  seen 
Through  his  inviting  open  palace  door. 
While  he  in  grandeur  gently  sinks  from  view 
Amid  this  gorgeous  beauty  all  around 
He  sheds  new  glory  on  still  other  scenes, 
On  other  archways,  architraves,  and  now 
On  golden  stairs  that  lead  to  visions  bright 
And  most  profound.     That  lead  in  fancy  bold 
Beyond  the  darkness  of  the  tomb  into 
The  glorious  mystery  of  the  Home  of  God. 


A  SEQUEL  TO  THE  SUNSET. 


now  these  stairways, 
^  Pass  through  these  doorways, 

Walk   through   the   palaces   so    beautifully 

bright, 

View  the  many  mansions, 
So  grand  in  dimensions, 
Fountainebleau  and  Windsor  equal  not  the  sight. 

Only  this  an  emblem, 
Only  slight  the  semblance 
To  the  grandeur  of  the  real  heavenly  scene, 

Where  God  in  His  glory 
With  Christ — O,  blessed  story! — 
Now  reigns  in  love  and  mercy  so  serene. 


54  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Here  stands  a  gate  ajar. 

Come,  oh,  man,  from  afar 
With  holy  awe  and  reverence  enter  thou  in! 

Remove  first  thy  sandal, 

Now  again  thy  mantle, 
For  the  place  where  thou  standest  knows  no  sin. 

Thy  faint  heart  that  trembles 

But  slightly  resembles 
Those  we  shall  meet  with  as  onward  we  pass. 

No  shadows  round  us  fall, 

Light  shines  in  all,  through  all, 
Transparent  every  form  as  clear  crystal  glass. 

Yet  how  distinct  they  seem! 
Beauty — yes,  the  holy  theme! 
And  mystery  of  mysteries  how  this  can  be. 
Naught  with  the  finite  sight, 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LI fE.  55 

Naught  though  such  radiant  light 
•Could  man  distinguish  where  these  forms  we  see. 

Greater  now  the  mystery, 

Earth  bears  no  history 
Of  like  things  and  like  scenes  that  now  come  on : 

Inside  the  pearly  gate 

Come  voices — oh,  so  sweet!— 
Musical,  angelic,  in  converse  and  in  song. 

A  happy  throng  has  gathered. 

And  by  no  sin  now  tethered, 
They  wander  and  enjoy  whatsoe'er  they  will; 

Their  music  sweet  and  perfect, 

Their  voices  speak  seraphic, 
While  joy  and  bliss  ecstatic  their  souls  now  thrill. 

Here  come  happy  faces 
From  out  celestial  places. 


56  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

\ 

More  beautiful  than  ever  known  to  earth. 

The  faces,  how  resplendent ! 

Their  joy  beams  out  transcendent, 
So  happy  now  since  death  brought  their  new  birth-. 

Well-known  voices  greet  us, 

Loving  eyes  now  meet  us 
With  joy  to  know, — so  glad  to  see  us  come. 

Outstretched  arms  enfold  us, 

Long  they  love  to  hold  us. 
O !  the  rapture  of  our  own  future  home ! 

You've  come  to  stay  forever. 

For  here  no  partings  sever 
Us  who  reach  this  blissful  place  so  bright. 

Our  home  is  so  delightful, 

There's  nothing  here  despiteful, 
All  is  love  and  purity  for  God  is  the  light. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L1PE.  57 

So  glad  you've  come,  my  darling; 

How  sad  it  was  our  parting, 
When  death  came  to  our  circle  down  below! 

But  did  you  know  then,  dearest, 

Your  trial  seemed  severest, 
That  I  would  come  to  meet  you  when  you'd  go? 


PANAMA, 

—»*•*•*<— 

contemplations  such  as  these 
The  night  drew  slowly  on, 
With  not  a  rppie,  not  a  breeze, 
To  roll  the  waves  along. 

Old  Panama  now  nearly  gained, 
From  which  some  news  to  send, 

Of  journey  prospered,  distance  gained, 
And  how  the  time  to  spend, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  59 


Found  utterance  in  the  ink  and  pens 
Laid  by  for  times  of  need; 

And  now  he  writes  to  many  friends, 
He  writes  his  time  to  speed. 

He  writes  again  and  still  ths  same, 
The  first  lines  seem  not  meet 

For  one  whose  memory  ever  came 
As  "  sister's  love"  more  sweet. 

Blue  sky  reflected  in  the  deep 

Seems  constantly  to  say, 
Your  image  I  as  surely  keep 

When  you  are  far  away 

As  ocean  holds  to  wondering  man 

A  mirror  of  the  skies, 
Reflecting  also  God's  own  plan 

Before  astonished  eyes. 


6o'  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

If  constantly  the  sky  be  blue 

Then  ocean  so  appears; 
If  clouds  obscure,  the  mirror  true 

Brings  darkness,  stormy  fears. 

So  love  from  deep  within  the  heart 

Reflects  most  constantly 
What  it  may  feel  to  form  a  part 

Of  loved  one's  purity. 

Yet  Panama  so  near  to  view 
Still  must  be  many  an  hour, 

For  slow  the  smoke  and  steam  now  flew, 
The  engine  lost  its  power. 

So  slowly  moves  the  mighty  craft 
That  something  seems  amiss, 

A  floating,  lifeless,  aimless  raft, 
Anxiety  like  this, 


A  VO  YA  GE  OP  LIPE .  6 1 

As  when  a  journey  nearly  done 

Some  unforeseen  event, 
Some  accident  has  counter  run, 

Fruition  to  prevent. 

But  fears  are  banished  when  we  hear 

That  we're  ahead  of  time. 
Insurance  money  is  the  spear 

That  keeps  us  back  "  on  time." 

But  in  "  due  time"  the  landing  gained, 

The  narrow  streets  all  filth, 
The  ancient  tiles  by  time  so  stained, 

With  here  and  there  much  wealth; 

The  sudden  endings  of  the  streets, 

Scarce  room  to  turn  aside 
From  donkey  cart  which  one  meets, 

Or  hurrying  man  beside, 


62  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Give  variations  to  the  trip, 

Lend  vigor  to  the  feet. 
Marked  changes  these  from  life  on  ship, 

Or  what  at  home  we  meet. 

The  hotel  gained,  refreshments  had 

Out  onward  to  depot. 
See  soldiers  come — so  poorly  clad! 

But  then  nor  cold  nor  snow. 

But  hurry  on,  the  train  soon  starts, 
And  should  you  miss  it  then 

These  loathsome,  filthy,  sickly  parts 
Must  prove  two  weeks  your  den. 

Now  safe  on  board  the  rickety  cars, 

The  whistle  screams  aloud, 
And  off  we  go!     My  back!  what  jars! 
What  jostlings!  what  n  crowd! 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L1PE.  65 

The  Isthmus  now  is  halfway  crossed, 

When  suddenly  a  crack, 
A  jumping,  tearing  noise  now  tossed 

Our  tender  off  the  track. 

The  train  is  stopped,  no  damage  done 

To  life  or  limb  of  man; 
But  we  must  wait  the  setting  sun 

To  bring  relief — what  plan? 

A  telegram  is  straightway  sent 

To  Panama  for  aid, 
And  restless  passengers  consent, 

And  broken  tender's  laid 

Beside  the  track,  and  on  we  go 

A  few  short  miles  I  ween, 
Where  switch  accommodates,  you  knowr 

And  rarest  plants  are  seen. 


64  SADALPUA;  OR, 

Again  we  stop ;  a  hamlet  near 

Of  quaint  and  strange  abodes, 
Set  high  on  posts,  with  thatched  roof  sear, 

In  files  along  the  roads. 

From  these  the  natives  now  pour  out, 

Surprised  to  see  us  stop; 
Eun  here  and  there,  begin  to  shout: 
"  Good  cakes!"  "coffee"  (mere  slop)! 

'"  Sweet  oranges"  and  "  chocolate!" 
"  Bananas"  and  "cigars!" 
With  "mango  apples" — yes,  "  so  sweet!'" 
"  Pine  apples!"     0,  my  stars! 

What  won't  they  bring!     Let's  leave  the  train, 

One  hour  is  far  too  long- 
To  view  this  scene  nor  see  them  gain 

Small  pittance  for  their  song. 


A  VOYAGEOF  L2PE.  65 

Then  passengers  to  rest  the  back 

And  time  to  while  away, 
13ome  follow  down  the  curving  track, 

Some  in  deep  woods  now  stray. 

How  dense  the  forest  round  about! 

How  hot  the  sweltering  air! 
Now  nimbus  shades;  then  sun  beams  out, 

With  crystal  raindrops  there 

On  brush  and  fern  and  palm  leaf  wide. 

A  strange  wild  scene  is  this; 
Bright  plumaged  birds  on  every  side, 

Insects  swarm  and  serpents  hiss. 

Above  the  scream  of  wild  baboon. 

Or  bright-winged  paraquet, 
Steam  whistle  sounds,  by  far  too  soon, 

This  scene  not  half  done  yet. 


66  SADALPHA;  OK, 

A  fortnight  though  might  prove  too  longr 

So  all  on  board  again; 
The  native's  quaint,  persuasive  song 

Is  hushed  by  moving  train. 

Now  Aspinwall  heaves  into  sight, 
With  bluff,  and  fort,  and  trees; 

But  slowly  now  the  shades  of  night 
Close  round  to  obscure  these. 

But  yonder  see  our  ship !  she  steams.. 

All  ready  to  depart, 
Awaiting  us.     Far  out  she  seems! 

Perhaps  she's  made  a  start! 

But  no ;  here  comes  a  smaller  boat 

To  take  us  from  the  train 
To  where  the  great  ships  easy  float 

That  plow  this  raging  main. 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  67 

Leaves  Aspinwall  in  shades  of  night 

Dim  outlines  in  the  mind. 
Its  record  too,  not  clear  nor  bright, 

On  history's  page  we  find. 


LEAVING  THE  ISTHMUS. 


OW  again  we  leave  the  shore, 

Rolling,  tumbling  on! 
Not  so  placid  as  before. 

Nausea  comes  anon. 

Fading  now  the  distant  land, 

Passing  from  the  sight; 
Soon  'tis  gone,  the  thundering  strand 

Clothed  in  darkest  night. 

What  shall  be  our  future  fate 

Plunging  in  the  dark? 
Cross  the  sea?     Too  soon?     Too  late? 

Ah,  man!  why  thus  embark? 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  69 

Fitness  is  in  everything; — 

Emblems,  could  we  see. 
Thus  the  voyage  that  we  sing 

Has  its  mystery. 

Birth  was  in  a  mountain  home, 

Love  came  with  that  birth; 
Childhood's  feet  then  fain  would  roam 

Near  parental  hearth. 

Youth  came;  then  desire  to  go 

Roving  further  round; 
Smooth  Pacific  seemed  to  show 

All  youth's  pleasure  found. 

All  then  tranquil  as  youth's  dream, 

Not  a  care  nor  storm; 
No  anxiety  'twould  seem 

Stirs  the  youthful  form. 


70  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Calmly  o'er  this  sea  we  sailed 

Pleased  with  every  sight. 
Landing  gained — strange  scenes  availed 

Manhood's  dawn  to  light. 

Isthmus  crossed — to  manhood's  prime, 
Brief  though  it  may  seem; 

Surely  comes  a  working  time, 
Life's  not  all  a  dream. 

Enter  it  with  doubt  and  fear, 

Darkness  supervenes, 
Ups  and  downs  through  many  years' 

Stormy  billows — scenes 

Trying  oft  the  soul  of  man, 

As  these  billows  test 
Through  each  ship  the  workman's  plan 

If  it  be  the  best. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L1PE, 

All  through  life  wealth,  fame,  pursued 

Anxious  labor  brings, 
Work  and  toil  to  be  renewed 

Hoping  better  things. 


WEST  INDIES. 


came  on  with  a  bright  rising  sunr 
Soon  to  be  hidden  by  gray  clouds  of  dawn. 

-..         t 

All  seemed  so  different,  so  changed,  not  serene 
°*£  Like  voyage  before  the  bright  Isthmus  so  green. 
/  The  billows  seem  working,  the  clouds  labor  so, 

To  bring  about  something;—  what  is  it?  do  you  know? 

Even  ocean  runs  counter  with  current   quite    strong. 

Instead  of  assisting  our  smooth  course  along, 

As  did  blue  Pacific  some  few  days  before, 

When  all  seemed  so  quiet  —  e'en  far  distant  shore. 

This  surging,  this  heaving,  this  motion,    this   strife  ; 

This  action  among  elements,  thus  teeming  with    life. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIPE.  73 

Fair  emblem  of  manhood,  its  aims  and  desires, 

Its  striving,  its  hoping,  to  wealth  it  aspires. 

The  passengers  also  more  active  now  seem, 

Their  staterooms  are  not  half  so  pleasant  they  deem, 

Their  room-mates  now  strange,  the  captain  is  sought 

To  change  them  and  rearrange  all  for  naught, 

He  thinks,  but  listens  to  each  in  his  turn : 

Says  everyone  now  by  traveling  must  learn 

That  all  is  not  comfort,  annoyance  must  come 

And  slight  inconvenience  for  leaving  a  home. 

Thus  sailing  on  o'er  the  sea  islands  appear, 

Fresh  and  luxuriant,  no  leaf  is  now  sear. 

Slowly  they  come  to  us,  come  they  so  nigh 

That  trees  and  green  bushes,  with  springs    close   by, 

Invite  us  to  come  to  them,  share  in  their  joy, 

Peacefully  wander,  no  strife  to  annoy. 

"  Come  to  us — come,"  they  say;   "  lonely  we  be; 


74  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Long  have  we  waited  far  out  in  the  sea, 
Something  to  offer  to  man's  happiness; 
Something  to  give  him  relief  in  distress; 
Something,  though  small  we  be.     Yes,  we  give  all, 
All  to  that  wisdom  which  raises  the  pall 
Of  man's  degradation,  his  ignorance  and  sin, 
And  bids  heavenly  sunlight  his  soul  to  shine  in," 
Slowly  we  pass  them,  and  then  to  the  sight 
Dimly  they  vanish  in  gray,  misty  light. 
Now  comes  proud  Cuba,  with  forest  of  green. 
Kising  to  Heaven,  the  dark  clouds  between. 
Here  is  unrest,  the  clouds  roll  about, 
The  breakers  run  high,  rough  rocks  pointing  out 
Obstruct  them  while  striving  the  land  to   submerge; 
The  booming  of  waves  thus  sounding  a  dirge, 
Deep-toned  and  soul-thrilling;  its   depths,    oh,    how 
deep! 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  75 

It  penetrates  ocean  and  mountains  so  steep! 

The  rain  is  now  falling  far  off  on  the  land, 

While  here  brightest  sunshine  encircles  the  strand. 

High  up  in  this  mountain,  which  now  seems  so  near, 

In  fancy  the  Mambi's  voice  signals  we  hear, 

In  tones  ringing  out  to  comrades  far  away, 

Who  catch  them  and  listen, — they  seem  now  to    say : 

' '  Valmasada !"   ' '  Valmasada !"  What  terror  that  name 

To  soldiers,  and  mothers  and  infants  the  same. 

See  parasites  hanging  from  every  tall  tree, 

Vines  and  thick  undergrowth  to  shore  of  the  sea. 

No  dwelling  of  man  now  fills  the  wild  scene, 

One  mass  of  solid  and  beautiful  green. 

Man  lives  here,  however,  obscured  from  the  world, 

Not  only  by  forests,  but  war  clouds  that  hurled 

Destruction  and  death  on  insurgents  that  roaiu 

Through  these  mighty  forests.     No  comforts  of  home, 


76  SADALPHA;  OR, 

No  hallowing  influence  of  civilized  life, 

Sheds  peace  and  contentment  on  Mambi  Land  strife. 

Independence  they  fight  for,  nor  give  o'er  the  task 

Till  liberty  gained,  in  its  sunshine  to  bask. 

Without  this  they  say  exterminate  foe 

Or  die  in  these  woods  that  shelter  us  so. 

But  onward  our  gallant  ship  plows  the  deep  main, 

Nor  stops  at  this  little  world  looking  to  Spain 

For  care  and  protection,  from  foes  without, 

While  foes  from  within  now  drive  them  about. 

Slowly  the  land  is  now  fading  from  view, 

Yet  still  will  our  thoughts  the  Mambis  pursue. 

What  shall  we  do  for  them?     What  can  be  done? 

Who  will  take  up  the  task?     Who,  when  begun, 

Will  not  assistance  give  downtrodden  man? 

Though  dark  his  deeds  may  be,  help  him  who  can: 

For  redemption  from  oppression  and  wrong 


A  VOYAGE  OP  LIFE.  77 

Can  be  accomplished  though  the  time  be  long. 

Would  man  be  brought  from  darkness  to  light  ? 

Must  he  look  upward,  there  all  is  bright. 

Up  to  the  source  of  all  wisdom  and  love: 

Up  to  the  Savior,  who  came  from  above 

To  give  a  sample  of  what  life  should  be, 

To  teach  love  and  mercy  and  sweet  charity, 

Wisdom  and  mercy  as  boundless  in  extent 

As  stars  throughout  space  in  bright  firmament. 


A  STRANGE  PHENOMENON, 


ANY  days  have  come  and  gone, 
Many  nights  been  dark, 

Still  we're  sailing,  sailing  on, 
In  our  mighty  bark. 

Florida  is  far  inland, 

Beaming  forth  the  sun, 
Stratus  clouds  on  every  hand, 

Noonday's  heat  begun. 

Gray  and  filmy  atmosphere, 
Thick  and  dense  and  warm; 

Overhead  the  sun  in  sphere, 
Token  of  a  storm. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LJfE.  79 

Stillness — death  was  ne'er  more  still, 

Not  a  voice  is  heard, 
Nor  ship's  engine  seems  to  thrill. 

Ominous  the  bird 

Lights  him  high  on  blackened  arm, 

One  shrill  scream  he  gives; 
Thus  portentous  of  great  harm 

To  all  on  board  that  lives. 

Surely  now  some  scourge  awaits, 

Say  the  sailors  old; 
Superstition  thus  relates 

Many  legends  bold. 

Hark !  again  what  sounds  we  hear 

Ringing  through  the  air; 
Bells  and  chimes  ring  out  quite  clear, 
Calling  us  to  prayer 


So  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

As  in  days  of  childhood  gone, 
Heard  we  them  before. 

Mystery!  they  still  ring  on! 
Come  they  from  the  shore? 

Is  some  phantom  ship  at  hand 

Floating  o'er  the  sea, 
-  With  the  bells  of  childhood  land 
Chiming  harmony? 

Or,  the  well-known  village  church 
Floating  through  the  air? 

Far  o'erhead  the  haze  we  search 
Finding  nothing  there. 

All  delusion  in  the  ear, 

Now  'tis  still  again! 
Hark  the  echo  far  and  near 

Kinging  o'er  the  main! 


AVOYAGEOF  L1PE. 

Now  dead  stillness  everywhere. 

See  yon  lonely  bird! 
Black  as  night,  sits  high  in  air, 

No  voice  from  him  is  heard! 

Could  it  be — these  sounds  that  float, 
These  strange  bells  that  ring, 

Through  the  air  came  from  his  throat. 
Mystic  song  to  sing? 

Answer  me,  ye  sailors,   then, 

Living  on  the  sea, 
Is  this  strange  phenomenon 

Still  deep  mystery  V 


QUAKATsTTINE, 

'N  quarantine  at  last, 

WEI 

Old  ocean's  dangers  past, 


We  are  waiting  for  our  ship's  scourge  to  cease, 
But  great  is  our  distress 
For  sickness  and  duress 
Have  robbed  us  now  full  many  days  our  peace. 

With  bird  and  bells  and  chimes, 

With  heat  and  tropic  climes, 
Came  smallpox  to  our  vessel  on  her  way. 

The  stricken  soon  we  place 

In  life-boats  swung  in  space, 
Nor  passengers  could  see  them  night  or  day. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  83 

And  now  we're  so  near  land 

We  see  the  pebbly  strand, 
Yet  many  days  must  linger  ere  our  feet 

Can  kiss  the  welcome  shore 

As  in  the  days  of  yore, 
Or  we  our  anxious  friends  again  may  meet. 

But  here  conies  a  siirgeon, 

With  vaccine  he  is  urging 
And  compelling  everyone  to  submit. 

Like  sheep  they  flee  away, 

Nor  in  his  presence  stay, 
Yet  every  arm  tirst  bare  is  quickly  hit. 

The  task  is  done  he  goes. 
Relief  from  dreaded  woes, 
Of  poisoned  arms  and  tainted  blood  will  come 
With  time,  which  brings  release 


84  SADALPHA;  OR, 

From  all  that  mars  our  peace, 
Save  death  and  separation  in  our  home. 

Behold  the  beauteous  shore, 

Far  brighter  than  before, 
For  now  beyond  our  reach  it  calmly  lay, 

Basking  in  the  sunlight, 

Forest,  lawn  and  mansions  white, 
Forts,  towns  and  cities  scattered  round  the  bay. 

Here  is  life  and  action, 

All  in  one  direction — 
That  of  gaining  wealth,  pleasure  and  renown. 

All  the  world  seems  centered 

In  the  port  we've  entered; 
Busy  throngs  of  vessels  hurrying  up  and  down. 

The  flags  of  all  nations, 
From  way  ports  and  stations, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  L1PE.  85 

Pass  us  as  we  lay  in  durance  so  long. 

Commerce  coming,  going, 

Small  boats  passing,  ro wing; 
Grand  excursions,  lively  music  and  song. 

Off  for  Staten  Island, 

Grove  and  lawn  and  highland! 
Merry  people  now  free  from  toil  and  care — 

Joyous  relaxation! 

Out  from  every  station 
Conie  the  throngs  to  wander  free  in  open  air. 

Multitudes  are  coming, 

Business  ever  humming, 
Drives  them  for  a  day  to  ramble  o'er  the  hills; 

Some  to  seek  enjoyment, 

Others  base  employment; 
Others  hear  God's  voice  in  music  of  the  rills. 


86  SADALPHA;  OK, 

If  language  is  to  thought 

What  nature  is  to  God, 
And  only  can  express  one-half  the  real, 

Then  meadows,  lakes  and  wood, 

When  fully  understood, 
Disclose  much  hidden  wisdom — His  ideal. 

Strive  upward  to  the  source, 

Let  thought  arise  perforce 
And  pierce  the  very  fountain  of  true  light, 

Then  joy  within  is  shed, 

Nor  conscience  now  is  dead — 
The  soul  is  brought  from  darkness  into  light. 


MOTIVES, 


IS  world  is  all  beauty 
And  action  and  life, 
Its  pleasures,  though  fleeting 

And  coupled  with  strife, 
Are  sweet  to  engage  in 

Delightful  the  while, 
Ah!  who  would  not  taste  them 

The  time  to  beguile? 
But  through  them  we're  looking 

To  something  beyond, 
Either  soon  to  accomplish 

Or  farther  along, 


SADALPHA;  OR\ 

To  reap  then  tire  sowing; 

Now  planting  the  seeds 
That  bring  then  the  harvest 

Of  all  our  good  deeds. 
In  order  in  this  life 

That  reaping  may  come 
Many  sow,  toil  and  strife, 

Deserting  a  home. 
Many  sow,  others  reap, 

Thus  gaining  for  naught 
What  they  have  not  planted. 

Their  labor  not  bought; 
Thus  changing  enjoyment 

From  where  it  belongs, 
Nor  reaping  just  merit 

Of  many  base  wrongs. 
We  see  them  here  reaping. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L1PE. 

The  pleasures  of  wealth, 
In  luxury,  grandeur, 

Forgetting  the  stealth 
By  which  they  have  gained  it, 

Not  deeming  the  while 
That  conscience  awakened 

Might  pleasures  defile. 
Behold  us  surrounding 

A  world  of  mankind, 
Each  seeking  an  object; 

Some  daring  to  find 
By  means  dark  and  hellish 

The  aids  to  his  end, 
Not  sparing  the  trust 

Of  intimate  friend. 
Exertion  like  madness 

The  motive  that  moves 


90  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

All  pleasures  and  business 

Along  in  their  grooves. 
With  travel  retarded 

By  wave  of  the  hand, 
That  bids  us  stay  back, 
Nor  deluge  the  land 
With  scourge  or  pestilence; 

For  science  says  no! 
Thus  far  shalt  thou  come, 

No  farther  shalt  go. 
But  every  thing  earthly 
To  end  surely  comes, 
So  quarantine  ended 

Makes  glad  many  homes. 


PART  3. 


STUDENT  LIFE. 


I 


'.I  who  shall  describe  the  student's  gay  life, 
For  here  will  we  find  all  manner  of  strife ! 
Strife  to  be  foremost  in  clinic  and  "  quiz;" 
Strife  to  be  always  "way  up"  in  all  "biz;" 
Strife  to  delve  deepest  in  medical  lore; 
Strife  to  be  first  at  dissecting  room's  door; 
Striving  to  see  all  that  ever  is  seen; 
Striving  to  "go  for"  the  new  students  green. 
Excelling  each  other  in  daring  deeds 
Of  darkness  not  found  in  any  the  creeds. 
Hazing  in  secret  with  plots  that  are  dark ; 
Roving  the  city  by  night  "  on  a  lark;" 


94  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Visiting  hospitals  day  after  day ; 

Seeing  the  form  divine  nude  as  it  lay 

Dying  or  dead,  as  the  case  might  be; 

Mangled  and  bleeding  or  longing  to  flee 

From  suffering  and  sickness  that  can't  be  cured 

But  which  old  adage  says  must  be  endured. 

Beguiling  the  soon  to  be  benedict 

From  virtue,  honor  and  constancy  strict; 

Leading  him  through  many  dens  on  Green  street, 

Till  various  potations  make  doubtful  feet; 

Taking  him  then  to  the  home  of  his  love. 

Ah!  could  a  Providence  ruling  above 

Have  so  arranged  it  that  she  should  be  ' '  out, ' ' 

Nor  meet  with  him  thus  as  he  reels  about! 

But  no !  she  answers  the  call  of  the  bell, 

And  horror  of  horrors!  dreadful  the  spell! 

Five  students,  all  strangers,  save  one  dear  face, 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LJfE.  95 

And  this  so  changed!     See  her  eyes  quickly  trace 
His  dear  manly  form — not  deeming  the  while 
That  comrades  could  thus  her  dear  one  defile. 
How  ended  this  episode  no  one  of  us  knows, 
For  bidding  adieu  to  them  parlor  doors  close. 
Four  jolly  students  hie  off  in  great  glee; 
Next  morning  a  headache  rewards  their  spree. 
Darker  deeds  come  anon,  in  jest  begun, 
Ending  in  tragedy,  darkening  the  sun 
With  crime  and  balckness.     A  demon  seems  bright 
Compared  to  some  intrigues  that  never  see  light. 
In  jest,  apparently,  two  wills  were  made, 
One  by  a  student  whose  property  laid 
Far  out  in  the  West  securely  to  stay, 
In  land  and  much  stock,  as  he  would  oft  say. 
The  other  owned  property  here  in  New  York 
Worth  many  thousands — architectural  work. 


96  SADALPHA;  OR, 

The  will  of  the  student  ran  thus  in  brief : 
"  At  death,  to  my  friend,  my  lands  I  bequeath 
In  view  of  his  kindness,  also  a  will 
Made  by  him  to  me,  this  contract  to  till." 

The  will  of  Mr. ,  on  the  other  hand, 

"  In  view  of  friendship,  and  will  about  land, 
Alike  here  bequeaths  to  this,  my  dear  chum, 
My  estate  on  Third  Avenue,  now  my  home." 
The  student  took  his  degree  at  Bellevue, 
And  then  to  his  noble  profession  pursue 
An  office  was  rented  in  his  friend's  block, 
With  drug  store  beneath,  and  goods  in  full  stock. 
Soon  the  good  landlord  with  some  strange  disease 
Grew  sick  and  then  died  his  tenant  to  please. 
In  Sing  Sing  the  jester  languished  till  death 
Freed  him  from  murder  by  taking  his  breath. 
And  now,  dearest  reader,  if  nerves  are  quite  strong 


A  VOVAGEOF  L1PE.  97 

And  equal  the  task  we'll  hurry  along 

And  visit  dissecting  room.     Stop,  do  you  say? 

You  can  not  endure  it?     Well,  turn  away! 

Turn  over  these  pages  nor  read  them  until 

Some  change  in  the  measure  the  lines  shall  fill. 

If  with  me  you  go  lay  by  the  dread  awe 

Which  filled  your  deep  soul  when  dear  one  you    saw 

In  death's  cold  embrace,  for  kindlier  thought 

Must  now  turn  aside  till  science  has  wrought 

A  great  preparation,  which  then  will  bring 

Kindness  and  succor,  relieving  death's  sting. 

Despite  my  warning  I  see  in  your  face 

Indescribable  thoughts,  as  onward  we  trace 

Our  steps  a  few  blocks  to  East  River's  side, 

To  grand  massive  buildings,  architects'  pride, 

Looming  up  silently,  cold  and  still, 

-Emblems  of  secrets  their  sombre  walls  fill. 


98  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Your  feelings  more  burdensome  come  as  we  climb 

The  wide  and  bright  stairway.     Dread  you  the   time 

When  door  shall  be  opened?     Here,  in  we  go! 

Trembling?     Apprehensive?     Stop!  you  say?    OhL 

This  strange  smelling  odor,  what  can  it  be? 

Softly  you  close  then  turn  to  see,* 

To  follow  so  quietly,  reverently  on, 

Through  spacious  apartment — other  things  gone. 

Narrow  long  tables  in  rows  through  the  hall, 

With  here  and  there  charts  that  deck  the  white   wall. 

Brilliantly  lighted  by  gas  everywhere; 

Groups  of  jets  burning  o'er  each  table  there, 

So  nicely  adjusted  that  motion  is  made 

In  each  as  'tis  needed  no  part  to  shade. 

Hundreds  are  burning,  students  are  working, 

Each  quite  intently,  seldom  seen  shirking 

This,  unto  others,  so  loathsome  a  thing 


A  VOYAGE  Of  L1PE.  99 

That  thoughts  of  it  shuddering  disgust  will  bring. 

Far  down  the  centre  four  white  walls  are  seen, 

Forming,  as  it  were,  a  dark  room  between. 

But  this  room  contains  nor  darkness,  nor  sprite, 

But  sheds  to  the  lecture  room  floods  of  light. 

Some  tables  are  empty,  many  are  used 

By  students  in  groups;  some  seem  much  amused, 

Some  chatting,  some  working,  referring  to  books 

With  anxious,  inquiring,  perplexing  looks. 

Portions  of  bodies  on  tables  around, 

The  work  near  completed  much  wisdom  is  found, 

Of  muscle,  and  tendon,  and  nerve,  and  brain: 

Of  bone  and  ligament,  artery  and  vein; 

Lymphatic  and  lacteal,  pancreas  and  gall, 

Ganglion  and  sinus,  both  great  and  small: 

Of  stomach  and  liver,  kidney  and  lung, 

And  many  strange  things  that  can  not  be  sung. 

Here  and  there  "  new  subjects,"  so  pale  and   white, 

With  now  and  then  one  as  black  as  the  night. 


ioo  SADALPHA;  OK, 

See  far  in  the  northeast  corner  the  place 

Where  cables  and  pulleys  and  black  iron  brace 

Suspended  from  ceiling  point  out  the  source 

Of  some  "  material,"  you  know,  as  of  course, 

The  "morgue"  is  below.     Ah!  who  would  bequeath 

His  body  to  rise  from  the  place  beneath? 

Smother  these  painful  thoughts,  if  you  can, 

That  rise  iir  your  mind  for  decaying  man, 

We'll  turn  and  retrace  our  steps  to  the  door, 

Past  tables  and  students,  corpses  and  gore. 

Students  all  smoking,  working  and  reading, 

Our  coming  and  going  scarcely  heeding. 

Some  in  dissecting  gowns,  others  without, 

But  long  linen  dusters  their  legs  about, 

Reversed  from  the  style  of  Grimes'  coat — 

Buttoned  on  the  back,  clear  up  to  the  throat. 

• 

Here  a  Professor  "  demonstrates"  a  brain, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  101 

There  garrulous  student  makes  tendon  plain; 
Others  are  joking  over  "  too  much  fat," 
Talking  of  "  hair  grease,"  their  •'  girls"  and  all  that. 
Condemn  not  too  sternly  the  student's  gay  strife 
Delving  for  principles  thus  to  save  life. 
These  jolly  light  spirits  will  soon  become  sage, 
Give  counsel  in  sickness  to  youth  and  old  age; 
Endanger  their  lives  that  of  others  to  save. 
Perhaps  be  laid  low  in  premature  grave; 
Guard  human  life  from  pestilence  and  death, 
Then  heed  lightly  now  what  frivolity  sayeth. 


LETTERS  FROM  HOME. 

iLEAK  and  cold  with  drifting  snow 

Flying  through  the  streets, 
Quick  the  steps  come  to  and  fro 

Hurrying  to  their  seats. 
Students  come  from  near  and  far, 

Now  they  hover  o'er 
Quaint  steam  heater, — iron  bar 

Coiled  above  the  floor. 
Eagerly  they  first  inquire, 
Letters  may  have  come, 
Loving  words  their  work  to  inspire 
From  dear  ones  at  home^ 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L2PE-.  103 

Fair  winged  messengers  of  love. 

Dainty,  white  and  neat, 
Small  inscriptions  thus  to  prove 

Messages  so  sweet, 
.From  "  friend"  and  "lover,"   "sister"    dear; 

Others  also  come 
From  father,  mother — larger  sear — 

Yet  good  news  from  home. 
Welcome,  aye,  from  Golden  State! 

First  to  find  its  place 
Came  from  "  sister's"  hand  to  greet 

A  homesick,  lonely  face. 
Feast  his  eyes  on  that  dear  sight! 

Ah!  the  joy  it  brings 
Fills  his  soul  with  pure  delight  -- 

Hopes  of  better  things! 
How  he  treasures  pleasant  thought.' 


ro4  SADALPHA;  OR\ 

How  the  bosom  thrills! 
All  his  labor  goes  for  naught; 

Bliss  the  future  fills! 
Solitude  steals  him  away; 

Anxiously  he  reads. 
Hope  seems  almost  led  astray! 

Heart  with  aoguish  bleeds. 
Deemed  he  now  that  she  would  give 

Some  slight  token  sweet 
Of  her  love; — bid  his  love  live — 

Hope  again  to  meet. 
Friendship  only  through  the  lines. 

Gay  and  cheerfully, 
Conversed  as  in  olden  times, 

Happy,  joyously. 
Teaching  school  in  forest  wild, 

Redwood  trees  among; 


A  VO  YA  GE  OF  LIFE .  1 05 

Happy  now  as  any  child 

In  parental  home. 
Soon  vacation  days  would  come 

Then  to  Clear  Lake  fair 
She  would  gladly  gaily  roam 

Through  the  pine  wood  air. 
Then  perchance  familiar  spot. 

Seeing  once  again, 
She  would  not  let  be  forgot 
"  Brother's"  scourge  and  pain. 
Answered  Sabbath  afternoon; 

Household  all  were  gone; 
Stillness  reigned  in  every  room, 

Heart  felt  sad  and  lone. 
No  sound  was  heard  save  steady  stroke- 
Ticking  loud  and  clear; 
The  clock  alone  the  silence  broke, 


to6  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Musing  to  make  dear, 
By  sweet  associations  past, 

Of  home  and  hallowed  scene, 
Of  acts  and  looks  too  sweet  to  last, 

Of  love  and  joy  serene. 
Far  away  from  home  and  friends 

Her  kind  letters  bring 
Bays  of  hope — ample  amends 

For  separation's  sting. 
Thus  he  wrote'     "  My  sister  dear, 

None  may  truly  know 
Of  the  joy  your  letter  gave 

To  me  some  days  ago. 
First  it  was  of  all  the  throng 

Sent  from  Golden  State, 
Joyously  it  rushed  along 

Anxious  eyes  to  sate. 


A  VOYAGE  OP  Lib E.  107 

Gladly  I  your  well-known  hand 

Recognized  before 
I  had  oped — to  read  began 

As  in  days  of  yore. 
Pleasant  voyage  I  have  had, 

Strange  grand  scenes  have  viewed, 
Now  through  work  nay  spirits  glad 

With  bright  hopes  renewed, 
Of  eminence  and  much  renown, 

Honor,  fame  and  wealth, 
Opportunities  to  crown 

Sickness  and  ill  health 
With  vigor,  strength  and  health  restored. 

Happiness  and  joy 
Bring  from  suffering  much  deplored 

Peace  without  alloy." 
Thus  the  correspondence  ran, 


io8  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Happy,  joyously, 
Scarce  alluding  to  a  plan, 

Not  e'en  cautiously, 
Of  what  their  future  life  might  prove; 

Yet  quite  steadily 
Grew  a  "sister's"  "brother's"  love, 

Sweetly,  tenderly. 
Fonder,  dearer  thoughts  came  now, 

Pure  and  holy  love 
Filled  each  soul  though  spoken  vow 

Heard  not  God  above. 
How  it  charmed  his  soul  to  read 

Each  thrice  welcome  line! 
Every  message  brought  the  need 

Of  others  in  due  time. 
Soon  this  happy  intercourse 

Of  thought  and  soul  a  part 


A  VO  YA  GE  Of  LIFE .  109 

Pierced  a  fountain  at  its  source 

That  flowed  from  heart  to  heart. 
Ah,  ever  flow,  holy  stream, 

Bring  peace  and  joy  and  bliss, 
Fill  up  the  soul  beauteous  dream 

Nor  fruition  miss! 
Love  that  springs  from  God  of  Light, 

Pure,  undying  love, 
Let  no  darkening  shades  of  night 

O'er  thy  current  move. 
From  thy  source  no  shade  will  come, 

Naught  can  check  thy  flow — 
Nothing  but  hell's  fiends  that  roam 

Darkens  thee  below. 
When  we  reach  thy  source,  Oh,  love! 

In  that  home  of  light — 
Beauteous  stream,  the  throne  above, 


IIO  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Flowing  ever  bright — 
We  will  know  thy  ecstasy, 

All  thy  bliss  so  sweet, 
All  thy  perfect  constancy, 

Loved  ones  there  we'll  meet. 


ACROSS    THE     CONTINENT. 


GRADUATION  near  at  hand; 

Ah,  bright,  honored  day! 
Proudest  day  among  life's  sand — 

Ne'er  to  fade  away! 
Now  there  came  a  promise  sweet, 

Spoken  timidly. 
Ah!  the  joy  when  they  should  meett 

Hope  rose  buoyantly. 
Now  he  knew  that  far  away 

One  fond  heart  with  joy 
Waited  the  eventful  day 
Soon  its  love  to  cloy. 


a  12  SAD  ALPHA;  OR^ 

Honor  from  the  college  given, 

Though  so  sweet  to  bear, 
Sank  before  the  sunlight  driven 

From  a  scene  more  fair. 
Day  when  love's  work  should  be  crowned, 

Happy  hearts  should  meet; 
Ever  after  love  abound, 

Pure,  serene  and  sweet. 
Now  farewell  to  college  halls, 

Take  its  honors  due, 
For  the  world  for  workers  calls, 

Workers  tried  and  true. 
•Go  ye  forth  in  various  ways, 

Where  the  world  has  need, 
Go,  and  by  your  actions  praise 

Them,  that  sowed  good  seed. 
Go  and  work  for  fellow  man, 


A  VO  YAGE  OF  L1PE.  \  \  3 

For  yourself  the  while; 
Raise  him  up  where  e'er  you  can. 

Nor  yourself  defile. 
Now  prepared  for  faithful  work 

By  the  training  had, 
Go,  nor  ever  duty  shirk 

Though  through  misery  led. 
Duty  done  to  man  and  self 

Leisure  comes  with  ease, 
Many  volumes  from  the  shelf 

Serve  the  mind  to  please. 
Ever  deem  it  wise  to  delve 

Still  for  hidden  truth, 
Ever  elevating  self 

Like  ambitious  youth. 
Then  shall  come  success  in  life, 

Home  and  friends  and  fame, 


,I4  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Happiness,  though  tears  and  strife- 
Mingle  with  the  same. 
Tears  will  purify  the  heart, 

Strife  will  make  you  bold, 
Well  in  life  to  act  your  part, 

Not,  indifferent,  cold. 
Come,  then,  contest  with  the  world  I 

Come  what  will  or  may 
With  your  banner,  truth,  unfurled 

You  will  gain  the  day. 
Truth,  Ah!  holy  bright  ensign! 

Wave  thou  ever  o'er 
Every  motive  of  mankind, 

Every  eye  before. 
Hurriedly  some  volumes  bought,. 

Instruments  also, 
Then  a  ticket  office  sought, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  115 

Now  prepared  to  go. 
Ci  oss  the  Continent  by  rail, 

Less  than  seven  days 
Ere  a  loved  one  he  should  hail. 

How  the  fancy  plays! 
Up  the  Hudson  River  fair, 

Ah!  how  grand  the  sight! 
Soft  delightful  evening  air. 

Shading  into  night. 
Sing  Sing  first,  then  Albany, — 

Rochester  is  here, 
Crossing  now  Niagara, 

Swinging  in  the  air. 
On  he  speeds,  nor  stops  to  view 

This  most  wondrous  scene, 
Brighter  thoughts  and  ever  new 

Fill  the  mind  s^ 


116  SAD  ALPHA;  OK, 

Now  Detroit  with  floating  road 

Bursts  to  view  anon; 
Wondrous  ferry — such  a  load- 
It  bears  the  train  along! 
Rain  in  torrents  has  submerged 

All  the  country  round; 
Swollen  streams  with  terror  urged 

Fence  and  drift  along. 
Cautiously  we  slowly  move, 

Fearing  accident; 
Flooded  bridges  lest  should  prove 

Our  great  detriment. 
Finally  we  cross  the  track 

Of  wind  storm  and  rain ; 
Swiftly  now  with  "  clickity  clack" 

On  we  speed  again. 
Reached  Chicago,  time  behind. 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  117 

Just  one  hour  too  late; 
Two  through  trains  a  day  on  time 

To  Nebraska  State. 
Over  prairies  vast  and  green; 

Passing  forest  now; 
Skirting  clear  meandering  stream. 

Under  green  hill's  brow. 
Towns  and  cities  come  and  go; 

Cornfields  like  the  sea, 
Waving  in  the  winds  that  blow, 

Pass  us  rapidly. 
Houses  scattered  here  and  there 

On  the  farms  display 
Scenes  of  home  life  everywhere. 

Here  a  school  at  play! 
Seems  the  teacher  anxiously 

Waiting  here  this  train  ? 


118  SADALPHA;  Ok, 

Possibly!— Quite  certainly 

One  beyond  the  plain 
Waits,  afar  in  mountain  horn  3, 

Soon  with  joy  to  greet 
One  no  more  from  her  to  roam. 

Come,  Oh,  day  so  sweet! 
Council  Bluffs  and  Omaha 

Come  and  disappear. 
Wilder  scenes  with  strange  dread  awe 

Fi."l  the  mind  with  fear. 
Antelope  and  buffalo    , 

Try  with  us  their  speed, 
Wolves  and  Indians  come  and  go, 

Scarce  our  presence  heed. 
Railroad  track  and  telegraph 

All  we  have  left  here, 
Marks  of  civilizations  path 


A  VOYAGE  OF  USE.  '"9 

XD'er  the  plains  so  drear. 
Now  the  Rocky  Mountains  climb, 

Higher  yet  ascend; 
Slower  now,  and  yet  on  time 

Will  our  journey  end. 
No!  "  down  breaks"  the  whistle  screams! 

Ah!  how,  short  we  stop! 
Too  much  rain  and  swollen  streams, 

A  land  slide  from  the  top 
Of  yon  high  mountain  covered  o'er 

And  destroyed  our  track; 
Eight  long  hours  suspense  we  bore 

Torture  of  the  rack! 
Grand  the  scenery  round  about, 

Yet  no  eyes  had  we 
To  enjoy;  though  cliffs  jut  out 

High  and  threateningly. 


SADALPHA;  OA\. 

On  we  move  when  road  repaired,. 

Carious  tunnels  through, 
Scarce  for  meals  or  sleep  we  cared,. 

Everything  so  new. 
On,  and  on,  and  on,  we  speed! 

Salt  Lake  hurries  by. 
On  we  go!  but  now  give  heed- 
It  conies  so  soon — 'tis  nigh! 
Now  we  stop! — white  tents  all  round 

Through  the  sage  brush  green. 
Here  a  few  days  since  was  found 

A.  bright,  triumphant  scene; 
East  shook  hands  with  youthful  West, 

Gladly  both  displayed 
Much  good  will; — with  "spike"  the  best 

Here  was  "  last  tie"  laid, 
Binding  us  with  iron  bands 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  121 

Stronger  than  the  thread 
That  swings  in  air  o'er  our  lands 

Bearing  thought  o'erhead. 
On  again,  and  ever  on, 

Sleepy  now  and  tired; 
Rest  awhile  and  wake  anon — 

Snow-sheds  have  been  fired; 
Burning  brightly  through  the  pines. 

Tunnels  dark  again; 
Then  beyond  the  wood's  confines 

To  Sacramento's  plain. 
Now  the  city  heaves  in  sight,. 

Welcome  place  so  gay; 
Holiday  begins  to-night — 

Independence  day. 
Happy  faces  fill  the  streets, 

Joy  fills  many  hearts; 


«22  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Each  the  other  gladly  greets. 

Soon  a  horse  race  starts; 
Some  to-day  to  try  their  speed 

Came  into  the  town, 
Since  the  Sabbath  brought  the  need 

Two  days'  sport  to  crown. 
Some  now  celebrate  the  third, 

Others  will  the  fifth, 
Thus  to  reverence  the  word 

Given  in  Holy  Writ. 


PART  4. 


R  A  R  7 

or  THL 
UNIVERSITY 


HOME. 


jiKIGHTLY  the  sun  shone  in  fair  mountain 

town ; 
Joyously  came  he  his  love's  work  to  crown; 

Gladly  she  welcomed  him  home  from  afar. 

f 

I    Oh !  holy  dawn  of  hope,  bright  morning  star ! 

Shine  ever  clearly  while  guiding  their  bark 
Over  life's  rough  sea,  through  the  storms  that  are  dark ! 
O!  come  now,  sweet  muses,  inspire  thou  my  song! 
Fill  every  measure  as  time  floats  along! 
Friends  have  now  gathered  to  witness  a  scene 
Which  God  has  ordained  sublime  and  serene; 
Has  given  His  sanction  in  words  from  above, 
Ever  uniting  such  hearts  as  may  love. 


126  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Homestead  is  brightened,  relations  all  here; 
Dear  friends  have  gathered  from  far  and  from  near. 
Bridesmaids  selected  from  old  friends  and  true 
Fondly  prepare  her  for  scene  ever  new. 
Gladly  the  time  passes  by  on  fair  wings; 
Sweetly  they  converse  as  each  moment  brings 
Some  added  beauty  to  toilet  and  room, 
Flower  and  ornament  and  sweetest  perfume. 
Sweeter  than  perfume  each  heart  full  of  love 
Sends  a  glad  stream  forth  its  source  from  above; 
A  stream  whose  clear  ripple,  so  pure  and  so  bright, 
Uniting,  o'erwhelms  these  two  hearts  with  delight. 
Fondly  yet  sadly  the  mother  is  seen 
Coming  and  going  bright  faces  between. 
Ah!  who  can  know  of  a  fond  mother's  thought, 
Seeing  her  child  from  the  cradle  thus  brought 
Through  many  long  years  of  toil  and  of  care 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LJfE.  127 

To  hallow  such  scene  so  bright  and  so  fair? 

Far  more  who  can  know  the  feelings  that  swell 

The  soul  of  the  child  in  this  anxious  spell? 

Sad  joy  brings  the  thought  that  to-day  she  must  leave 

The  home  of  her  childhood,  others  receive 

As  friends  and  acquaintances;  thus  new  life 

Is  brought  to  her  now  with  that  strange  word  wife. 

"  What  shall  my  future  be?"  says  she  the  while. 

Musingly,  silently — ever  a  fmile 

Hiding  the  turbulent  depths  of  the  soul, 

Where  gladness  and  joy  with  regrets  now  roll. 

Great  is  the  sacrifice  which  she  has  brought; 

Home  and  dear  schoolmates  all  go  for  naught. 

Brothers  and  sisters'  society  gone — 

All  she  surrenders  for  love's  dearest  boon. 

Trusting  in  love  she  now  ventures  to  stray 

Over  life's  sea  to  sail  gladly  away. 


128  SAD  ALPHA;  OK, 

Longer  or  shorter  the  voyage  may  be — 
Terminate  safely  or  disastrously. 
Love  be  thy  compass,  oh,  pilot,  to  guide 
Safely  past  deep  hidden  rocks  that  betide 
These  voyagers  dangers  or  suffering  sore; 
Land  them,  oh,  pilot,  on  the  evergreen  shore! 
Their  voyage  shall  end  not  till  death  comes  on 
Bringing  the  passengers  into  their  home, 
Off  from  life's  ocean  whose  waves  ever  roll 
Bearing  to  eternity  each  living  soul. 
What  shall  eternity  be  when  they  land? 
Bright  home  of  beauty  with  welcoming  strand? 
Or  shall  it  be  darkness  encircling  the  shore 
With  torture  and  torment  for  evermore? 
Cheerfully,  gaily  the  hour  arrives 
For  blending  in  one  these  two  loviog  lives. 
Pastor  and  friends  and  relatives  here, 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE. 

Soon  in  the  distance  three  others  appear; 
One  seems  quite  pensive,  yet  joy  tills  his  heart 
Knowing  from  loved  one  no  more  he  shall  part. 
His  soul  fills  with  bliss  as  he  thus  draws  near. 
"Never  can  man  know  these  feelings  so  dear 
Until  they  have  moved  his  soul  with  delight. 
They  come  like  the  rainbow  of  promise  bright, 
'Shedding  new  glory  on  future  and  past. 
Ah!  may  not  this  glory  forever  still  last? 
Olad  is  their  meeting  no  more  to  sever; 
Happy  in  love's  fond  presence  forever. 
Slowly  the  words  came  from  depths  of  the  hear't> 
""  What  God  has  united  let  man  never  part." 
•Gladly  and  happily  hie  they  away 
From  childhood's  roof,  nor  ever  heard  say 
Regret  at  the  going,  for  life  seemed  so  new 
•Since  love  and  happiness  filled  each  day  through 


r5CT  SADALIHA;   OK, 

Joyfully,  cheerfully  life  is  begun; 

Hopefully,  brilliantly  rises  the  sun 

Of  promise  and  love  to  brighten  their  dayy 

Shed  joy  and  happiness  over  their  way. 

Love  rules  supreme  every  act  and  each  word, 

With  passions  controlled  no  discord  is  heard. 

Soon  the  new  home  seems  dearer  than  the  old, 

For  every  day  brings  a  new  joy  untold. 

Working  and  toil  bring  sweet  rest  and  repose, 

Hallowed  the  scene  when  each  day's  labors  close. 

Influence  of  lotus  conies  an  till  the  morn 

Brings  again  labor  their  lives  to  adorn. 

As  oft  through  the  day  their  loving  eyes  meet 

Work  is  now  rendered  by  each  look  more  sweet, 


HAPPINESS. 


4?w^F  happiness,  perchance,  may  be  desire 
j  ^»e;  And  its  fulfillment,  then  what  joy  bursts  forth 

$f&  To  view  again  those  scenes  made  dear  by  love, 
$ 
Where  hope  and  fancy  bright  in  former  years 

Made  glad  the  heart  to  think  of  what  might  be. 
Ah!  now  rejoice  with  love's  fond  dream  matured 
And  all  that  fancy  painted  realized  ! 
What  else  could  add  to  earthly  bliss?     What  else 
But  ever  new  desire  for  something  more 
To  share  with  those  we  love,  and  in  its  glad 
Fruition  see  new  joy  in  loved  one's  face? 
With  every  added  joy  that  comes  and  goes 
With  happy  memory  of  its  pleasing  flight 


152  SAD  ALPHA;  Ok, 

There  comes  anon  capacity  for  more; 
Be  they  the  joys  and  sweets  of  home,  or  be 
They  other  forms  of  so-called  happiness. 
Then  hearken  now,  give  ear  recaptive  mind, 
And  of  the  joys  that  come  drink  deep  and  long 
From  such  as  seemeth  pure,  and  just,  and  true, 
And  lovely,  honest  and  of  good  report. 
New  home,  how  sweet  thy  quiet  pleasures  are 
When  first  with  loved  and  loving  hoarts  we  come 
To  taste  thy  joys  so  new  and  strangely  sweet! 
When  loving  hands,  in  sweet  accord  with  all 
Our  happy  thoughts  and  voices,  deftly  place 
Each  ornament  and  picture  on  the  wall ; 
Glad  with  approval  and  the  sweet  response 
Of  love  from  out  the  only  soul  we  love. 
Oh!  new  made,  dearest,  sweetest,  lovely  home, 
Where  two  hearts  join  in  all  they  say  and  do 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  133 

To  render  all  thy  scenes  more  beautiful 

And  add  new  joys  to  each  succeeding  day! 

Come  days,  and  weeks,  and  months,  and  years,  and  all 

Thy  joys  thus  multiply.     But  cares  of  those 

In  deep  distress  and  sickness  came,  and  yet 

With  their  relief  from  darker  woes  of  death 

Came  ever  to  the  hearts  in  this  new  home 

Glad  thoughts  of  duty  done. 

Thus  many  years  of  love  and  pleasure  ran, 

Each  in  a  sphere  where  duty  called  most  loud, 

Where  act  of  love  and  kindness  could  be  done, 

Or  skill  to  save  from  death  could  be  bestowed. 

She  glad  to  benefit  mankind,  or  raise 

The  darkness  from  a  faltering,  sinning  soiil 

And  poir.t  it  to  an  everlasting  home. 

While  he  to  p;ive  tlio  mortal  part  from  death 

Gave  time  .and  toil  smcl  sleepless,  stormy  nights. 


•  34  SAD  ALPHA;  Oh, 

She  watches  anxiously  with  wakeful  eyes 
"Within  the  lonely  cottage  window  there. 
Aroused  at  every  noise  to  see  him  come 
From  out  the  dismal,  dark  and  rainy  night 
Where  he  had  gone  to  succor  dying  man. 
No  sleep  she  knows  till  coming  break  of  clay 
Has  brought  return  of  him  she  loved  and  watched. 
Such  separations  and  such  dread  suspense, 
Though  short  in  time  to  others  they  may  seem, 
Yet  seem  they  now  to  her  as  endless  pangs 
That  pierce  the  soul  with  strange  anxiety. 
With  depth  of  love  comes  corresponding  woe 
At  separation  from  the  soul  we  love. 


SADNESS. 

came  a  day 

>  J-.    When  deeper  anguish  rolled  across  her  soul. 
C     *   When  all  alone  in  midst  of  books  she  loved, 
#  With  husband  on  his  errands  of  relief, 
!    A  crimson,  vital  and  yet  deathly  fount 
Leaped  forth  from  out  that  throbbing,  loving  breast. 
Too  well  she  knew  its  import.     And  though  small 
The  stream  that  seemed  so  bright,  she  realized 
That  what  she  oft  had  dreaded  now  must  come. 
The  husband  soon  returned;  his  well-known  step 
She  heard,  but  dare  not  move  his  face  to  greet 


rs6-  SAD  ALPHA;-  OK, 

At  welcome  door,  as  was  her  gladsome  wont, 
For  fear  her  life-blood  forth  again  should  spring.. 
The  fond  embrace — then  tears,  ah,  bitter  tears! 
Filled  loving  eyes,  while  thus  she  gently  spoke : 
"  My  darling,  I  must  leave  you  soon — for  see — 
See  this — consumption's  never  failing  mark 
Has  come  to  tell  us  we  must  surely  part. 
How  soon  we  know  not,  yet  you  know  'twill  come- 
That  I  must  go  and  be  with  you  no  more. 
Oh,  darling  1  can  I  go  and  leave  you  thus 
Alone  in  life?" 

With  words  he  knew  were  false  he  thus  replied  :. 
"  My  dear,  think  not  too  sadly  of  our  lot, 
This  hemorrhage  is  small  and  doubtless  will 
Relieve  the  slight  congestion  of  the  lung 
Produced  by  taking  cold  some  weeks  ago." 
But  deep  within  his  anguished  soul  he  knew 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE.  137 

Far  better  than  his  words  which  scarce  deceived. 

Some  months  were  passed  and  with  them  came  return 

Of  that  dread  symptom,  many  others  too 

That  told  too  plainly  ©f  disease  within. 

Then  May  time  came  with  plans  for  mountain  trip 

To  early  scenes  'mid  lakes  and  well-known  woods. 

Where  love  was  born.     Thus  seeking  to  restore 

The  waste  begun,  and  if  perchance  to  check 

The  onward  march  of  that  which  yet  to  skill 

Bids  stern  defiance.. 

Amid  these  old  familiar  mountain  scenes 

She  moves  again  with  troubled,  sorrowing  souL 

Some  dear,  familiar  faces  she  now  meets, 

But  many  gone  leave  aching  voids  within 

For  friends  of  early  days. 

How  sad  she  feels  to  see 
At  door  of  death  the  honored,  manly  brov 


1 3»  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Of  one  she  knew  in  former  years — her  pride 
As  pupil— bright-eyed  boy.     But  sadder  still 
To  know  the  self  same  hand,  that  dread  disease 
Of  which  he  dies,  is  even  now  at  work 
In  her  pale  form,  and  soon — too  soon — must  she 
In  like  condition  pass  from  earth  away. 

The  pure  and  fragrant  mountain  air 
Brought  scarce  a  change.     And  with  the  Autumn  came 
Return  to  home  and  husband  dear.     With  sad 
Farewells — ah,  last  farewells — to  friends  of  youth 
And  relatives  so  dear,  she  turns  her  face 
Towards  one  bright  spot  of  all  the  earth  to  her 
Most  dear; — that  new  made  home  where  love 
And  tenderness  abides;  where  anxious  heart 
To  her  so  dear  awaits  to  welcome  her. 
She's  coming  home  to  die!     O,  God  of  love, 
And  power,  and  might,  is  there  indeed  no  help? 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  139 

0,  God!  my  God,  canst  Thou  not  save 

All  them  who  to  Thee  cry? 
Hear  me,  my  Father,  as  I  crave 

Smcor  from  Thee  on  high, 

To  check  what  man  with  all  his  skill, 

And  all  he  knows  of  Thee, 
Can  not  arrest  or  change  at  will 

From  wasting  tendency. 

My  God,  I've  sought  Thee  in  Thy  laws, 
Through  Nature  traced  Thy  power, 

The  defects  of  my  race  its  flaws, 
My  watchword  many  an  hour. 

Yet  still  I  come,  when  all  else  fails, 

To  Thee  my  source  of  light, 
And  ask  and  pray  with  many  wails 

That  morn  shall  not  be  night 


SADALPHA;  OR. 

Canst  Thou  not  hear  my  feeble  cry? 

O,  God,  I  scream  to  Thee 
For  help!     Oh,  help  me  or  I  die! 

Oh,  save  my  own  to  me! 

She  has  sought  health  in.  other  climes, 

Now,  guided  by  Thy  laws, 
She's  coming  home— I  hear  sad  chimes. 

Oh,  save  from  death's  dark  jaws! 

Thou  canst  arrest  this  slow  decay, 
Thy  word  and  laws  proclaim. 

Wilt  Thou  not  in  her  case  display 
Some  token  of  thy  aim? 

Oh,  show  by  this  Thy  power  supreme 
O'er  man,  though  science  guide! 

Show  love  to  triumph,  love  sweet  theme 
Through  Christ,  the  crucified. 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIFE.  141 

' '  How  glad  I  am  to  be  at  home  again ! 
What  pleasant  and  refreshing  rest  I'll  have! 
So  tired  I've  been  these  many  weary  months, 
And  longed  so  much  to  be  with  you  once  more. 
I'll  never  leave  you,  darling  one,  again, 
Until  I  go  where  you  must  one  day  come. 
I'll  stay  with  you  a  few  short  weeks  or  months 
And  then  I'll  go  away  again;  no  more 
To  be  with  you  in  this  our  pleasant  home. 
Do  not  weep,  for  if  it  be  God's  will 
Then  must  it  be  for  our  own  good." 

What  torture  to  the  living,  loving  soul 
Can  equal  that  which  comes  to  those  who  see 
A  loved  one — ah,  one's  better  self — for  days, 
And  weeks,  and  months,  to  suffer  and  draw  near 
The  verge  of  that  mysterious,  bournless  land 
Beyond  the  tomb?     When  as  each  day   brings   forth 


142  SAD  ALPHA;  OR, 

Its  busy  cares  and  duties  to  be  done, 
Tie  mind  is  almost  lost  in  earnest  toil. 
And  so  engaged  in  its  absorbing  work 
That  future  cares  scarce  penetrate  the  thoughts; 
Then  as  the  homeward  footsteps  gladly  traced, 
How  like  an  avalanche  breaks  o'er  the  mind 
The  thought  that  death  is  lingering  in  our  home ! 
Nor  will  his  waiting  e'er  give  o'er  until 
He  takes  a  dearly  loved  one  from  our  sight. 
Ah!  thou  dread  terror  of  the  human  mind, 
Unwelcome  monster,  wilt  thou  e'er  remain? 
Oh !  that  I  could  but  summon  heaven  and  hell, 
And  all  the  mighty  po  ,vers  that  in  them  be, 
And  all  of  earth  and  men  that  show  forth  might, 
How  far  would  I  not  banish  thee  from  sight, 
And  thus  restore  my  home  to  what  it  was 
Before  thou  earnest,  with  sneaking,  stealthy  tread 


A  VOYAGE  OF  L1PE.  143 

To  mock  my  skill  and  scorn  my  aid  of  men! 
He  further,  mocking,  says:     "  Be  not  enraged, 
Thou  canst  not  drive  me  hence.     I  came  for  her 
And  she  must  surely  go.     I  care  not  aught  for  thee 
With  all  thy  sis  ill;  nor  all  of  man  combined; 
His  boasted  science;  or  the  aid  of  thy 
Most  skillful  brethren  of  the  healing  art. 
Yes,  bring  them  on,  use  every  means  now  known. 
And  yet  thou  soon  shalt  see  I'll  gain  the  day, 
And  bear  her  hence  into  my  doorless  house." 
Ah !  thou  grim  monster,  wilt  thou  ever  mock 
And  thus  deride  my  grief?     Thou  shalt  be  gone: 
She  loves  not  thee  but  me.     She  fain  would  stay, 
And  she  must  stay.     Begone,  thou  fiendish  king 
Of  terrors,  from  my  former  happy  home! 
Then  through  the  skill  of  various  minds,  and  by 
The  power  of  love,  and  strong  desire  to  live, 


144  SADALPHA;  OK, 

The  pale,  fair  form  would  seem  new  strength  to  gain 

And  thus  new  hopes  arouse  within  the  breast 

That  possibly  the  monster  now  had  flown. 

Then  home  was  joyous  once  again,  for  now 

Bright  hope  lent  buoyancy  to  every  act 

And  o'er  each  scene  of  home  shed  rays   of  gladness, 

•Could  this  continue  what  a  joy  'twould  bring! 

Ah!  sweet  it  is  indeed  to  conquer  foe, 

But  sweeter  far  when  mighty  is  that  foe 

And  ever  seeks  our  homes  to  desecrate! 

But  then  that  daily,  hollow,  wearing  cough 

Told  but  too  plainly  of  the  secret  foe 

That  lurked  and  e'en  abode  within  the  room, 

And  only  hid  himself  away  from  sight 

When  love  and  hope  would  fain  not  see  his  form. 

Ah!  come  thou  forth  from  out  thy  hiding  place. 

Destroyer  of  my  earthly  happiness, 


A  VOYAGE  Of  L1PE.  145 

And  meet  me  face  to  face,  that  I  may  hurl 

Thee  hence  so  far  that  thou  canst  ne'er  return! 

All  vain  attempts  to  dispossess  him  of 

His  lovely,  fading  prize — he  only  scoffs, 

And  still  remains. 

At  length  when  days,  and  weeks,   and    months   have 

passed 

His  form  familiar  grows.     He  hovers  round 
The  sleeping  couch,  and  totters  by  the  side 
Of  his  pale  victim,  as  she  comes  and  goes 
With  feeble  step  from  room  to  room. 

When  oft  returned 

From  busy  toil  and  care,  the  husband  sees 
The  wasting  form,  to  shun  death's  presence  dire, 
Has  left  the  dreaded  sick  room  bed,  and  now 
Reposes  where  new  life  perchance  may  come 
In  gentle  sleep;  nor  now  disturbed  by  him 


«4r>  SADALUJA;  OK\ 

Whose  quiet  footstep  hurries  to  her  side; 

He  ever  finds  the  reaper  hovering  o'er; 

His  fingers  playing  with  her  shining  hair, 

And  fondly  pressing  the  unconscious  cheeks 

That  ne'er  return  to  wonted  fullness  more. 

While  every  impress  of  unwelcome  touch 

Marks  that  fair  face  death's  own.     Unconscious  still 

She  sleeps.     The  bony  reaper  with  a  hand 

"Uplift,  as  if  to  warn  him  cautiously 

Away,  says:     "Stop!  do  not  come  near;  disturb 

Not  this  her  sweet  repose,  nor  me  in  this 

My  tender  care  for  her.     I  love  to  be 

Thus  near  to  her,  and  to  behold  these  cheeks 

And  rosy  lips  which  you  so  oft  have  kissed 

Grow  pale  and  lean.     I  love  to  think  the  while 

That  soon — yes,  very  soon — she'll  go  away 

With  me  and  never  more  return  to  you. 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LIfE.  14? 

This  face,  though  pale,  will  look  so  sweet  within 
Its  beauteous  casket  all  bestrewn  with  flowers; 
These  hands  so  white  then  folded  o'er  this  breast 
Then  cold  will  never  more  grasp  yours  in  love; 
This  mind  now  in  such  sweet  and  calm  repose 
Will  then  respond  to  none  of  your  sad  grief; 
These  eyes  then  closed  as  now  will  never  more 
Beam  forth  the  joyous  love  that  fills  her  soul. 
Ah!  contemplate  with  tears  my  lovely  prize! 
For  see  e'en  now  how  much  like  me  she  looks, 
Save  this  too  rapid  breathing,  heaving  breast. 
But  see!  she  startles;  I  will  disappear 
Lest  she  should  see  me  watching  o'er  her  now. 
Remember  this  in  all  your  converse  sweet 
With  her,  that  she  is  mine,  no  longer  thine." 
"Ah!  darling,  is  it  you?     I've  been  asleep. 
Such  peaceful  and  refreshing  sleep !     Perhaps 


•48  SAD  ALPHA,    6>A: 

It  was  not  sleep— I  hardly  know— for  see, 
I'm  rested  now  and  feel  quite  strong  again. 
If  this  were  sleep  then  could  I  always  be 
In  such  condition.     Shall  I  say  I  dreamed, 
Or  was  it  something  more?     Ah!  surely  more; 
For  such  a  rest  I  ne'er  before  have  known. 
The  Savior  took  me  in  His  loving  arms 
And  bore  me  as  a  child  throughout  His  Home. 
At  first  I  thought  the  arms  were  yours,  and  then 
Such  beauty  ever  filled  my  wondering  eyes 
That  well  I  knew  and  felt  no  earthly  scene 
Could  thus  my  soul  with  bliss  and  rapture  fill. 

There  in  His  Father's  House  a  mansion  fair 

And  beautiful  I  saw  prepared  for  us. 

Its  holy  grandeur  tongue  can  ne'er  express, 

Nor  its  perfection  for  our  happiness. 

Oh!  darling,  this  our  earthly,  happy  home, 


A  VO  YAGE  OF  L1PE.  149 

Though  dear  and  pleasant  as  a  home  can  be, 

Seems  nothing  when  compared  to  what  I  saw. 

I  now  can  go  content  to  leave  you  here, 

For  well  I  know  that  you  will  one  day  come 

To  this  our  second  new  made,  glorious  Home, 

And  be  again  with  me  forever  there." 

The  weeks  rolled  on  and  brought  the  merry  May; 

But  sadness  teemed  in  every  leaf  and  flower 

To  him  who  realized  that  now  had  come 

The  time  when  all  these  bright  and  fragrant    flowers 

No  more  could  charm  the  wasting  form,  save  as 

They  came  from  loving  hands  and  tender  hearts 

Of  friends  to  decorate  the  sick  one's  room. 

Ah,   loving  hands!  what  joy  these  flowers  bring 

To  soften  sadness  with  their  fragrance  sweet! 

They  speak  of  weeping  hearts  that  fain  would  bring 

Relief  from  suffering,  and  restore  to  life 


150  SADALPHA;  OR. 

The  object  of  their  kind  solicitude. 

How  sad  to  know  that  as  these  fragrant  flowers 

Are  offered,  each  with  sympathy  and  love, 

From  hearts  that  feel  what  they  can  not  express, 

The  soul  that  lingers  for  a  few  short  days 

Responds  with  love  as  deep  and  pure,  and  sweet, 

As  that  of  angels;  for  she  now  seems  one, 

Waiting  only  for  the  time  to  come 

When  life's  rough  sea,  now  calm  as  after  storm r 

Shall  bear  her  gently  to  the  heavenly  shore, 

Which  she  now  sees  and  anxiously  awaits. 

Oh !  happy  landing  after  voyage  done, 

That  has  been  oft  beset  with  danger  and 

With  torturing  doubts !     Yes,  joyous  it  may  be 

To  worn  and  weary  voyagers.     But  Oh, 

The  bitter  anguish  of  the  loving  hearts 

That  see  them  go !     It  seems  as  if  pale  death 


A  VOYAGE  OP  L2PE.  151 

Were  ever  passing  through  earth's  garden,  full 
Of  living  and  immortal,  precious  souls, 
And  gathering  of  the  brightest,  fairest  flowers, 
And  ever  making  fragrant,  lovely  wreaths, 
And  bright  bouquets,  with  which  to  decorate 
The  heavenly  throne. 

O,  restless,  suffering,  anxious,  torturing  hours, 
Before  the  spirit  bids  a  last  farewell 
To  earth,  and  friends,  and  home,  and  loved  ones  dear! 
What  language  can  the  depth  of  anguish  tell 
That  fills  each  soul,  as  round  the  dying  couch 
They  gather  from  afar  to  bid  a  last 
Farewell?     O,  weeping  hearts,  will  ye  not  burst, 
So  full  of  tearless,  suppressed  grief  ye  seem? 
Could  tears  but  flow  perchance  t'would  give  relief. 
But  no,  they  must  not  come  as  yet. 
The  night  grew  slowly  on, 


152  SAD  ALPHA;  OR. 

And  with  it  came  that  last,  sad  awful  scene. 
The  restless,  sleepless  yet  angelic  eyes 
Gave  token  of  approaching  death;  of  that 
Last  sleep  which  never  more  a  waking  knows. 
All  present  felt  it  coming  o'er  her  now. 
And  she,  whose  wakeful  eyes  for  days  no  sleep 
Had  known,  felt  too  that  now  sweet  sleep  would  come. 
She  knew — ah,  yes,  too  well  she  sadly  knew— 
That  she  must  now  a  long  and  sad  farewell 
To  friends  and  sister,  brother,  husband  give. 
O,  can  it  be  that  she  must  go  away? 
Will  not  my  God  give  rescue  from  the  scene? 
Will  not  my  brethren  of  the  healing  art 
Save  her  a  few  days  more  to  be  with  me? 
"  My  darling,  do  you  think  I'm  dying  now, 
Or  is  it  only  sleep  that  makes  me  feel 
More  comfort  now  than  I  for  days  have  felt? 


A  VOYAGE  OF  LJfE.  153 

No  pains,  no  restlessness,  nor  dread  I  feel. 

I  must  be  dyinj,  surely — am  I  not? 

Dear  sister,  do  not  cry.     Bring  baby  here; 

His  auntie  loves  him  so .     He  little  knows 

How  sad  I  am  to  leave  him  thus  before 

His  memory  can  in  after  years  retain 

Fond  thoughts  of  me.     How  happy  you  will  be 

With  him  when  he  is  grown.     Will  you  not  then 

Recall  how  much  I  love  him  now?     And  how 

I  hope  and  pray,  with  this  my  dying  breath, 

That  he  may  be  a  great  and  useful  man 

And  learn  to  know  how  much  I  loved  him  ? 

My  only  sister,  well  I  know — too  well — 

How  lonely  you  will  be  when  I  am  gone, 

For  Ma  has  left  us  all  alone!     But  then 

You  know  she  was  so  good  and  kind  to  us 

That  we  will  one  day  find  her  where  she's  gone— 


'54  SADALPHA;  OR, 

And  I  will  very,  very  soon  be  there. 

My  brother,  I  shall  soon  be  gone  from  you; 

Oh,  will  not  you  so  live  that  you  may  come 

Where  Ma  and  I  will  wait  for  you? 

My  darling  husband,  you  will  come  I  know. 

If  you  will  only  true  and  faithful  be. 

You  love  me,  do  you  not?     My  love  for  you 

Has  been  so  great  that  I  could  never  give 

You  up  to  go  away  and  leave  you  here 

Alone.     I  often  hoped  that  we  might  go 

Together  to  the  other  happy  home 

Which  Jesus  has  so  well  prepared  for  us. 

What  will  you  do,  my  darling,  when  I'm  gone? 

These  rooms  will  be  so  sad  and  lonely  then. 

Will  you  stay  here  or  will  you  go  away? 

Kiss  me  good-by,  for  I  am  dying  now. 

Do  not  cry  so!— It  is  not  hard  to  die." 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  155 

Then  came  that  perfect  rest.     It  was  not  sleep 

But  death,  which  once  before  had  been  so  near. 

The  lips  moved  gently  as  in  trusting  tone 

Of  whispered  words  she  spoke  to  One,  whose  voice 

None  heard  save  she  who  rested  in  His  arms, 

And  as  His  words  fell  gently  on  her  ear 

She  seemed  to  listen  so  attentively 

That  husband  hovering  o'er  her  dying  face 

Heard  her  in  earnest  whispers  to  converse, 

Make  this  request  of  Him  with  whom  she  spoke : 

"You  will  take  care  of  husband,  will  you  not?" 

Then  waiting  briefly  as  if  for  reply 

With  anxious  look  until  she  heard  it  come ; 

Then  pleased  as  though  a  doubt  had  been   removed, 

As  if  a  promise  had  to  her  been  given. 

She  spoke  aloud  to  those  who  wept  around, 

In  tone  betokening  confidence  and  love, 


1S6  SADALPHA;  OR, 

Assuring  him  from  whom  she  now  must  part 
That  "  Jesus  will  take  care  of  you." 
Then  all  was  still;  the  gentle  spirit  borne 
Away  within  the  arms  of  tenderness 
And  boundless  love,  left  sobbing,  bleeding  hearts 
To  drink  at  deep  affliction's  bitter  fount, 
Its  waters  ever  adding  to  the  thirst, 
Until  they  drink,  and  weep,  and  drink  again. 
Now  overcome  with  weeping  fall  to  sleep, 
Then  wake  to  weep  again,  and  stiU  again 
To  moan  through  shades  of  sorrow's  darkest   night; 
To  dream  and  then  awake  to  know  the  worst, 
And  wonder  if  it  can  be  truly  so 
That  all  indeed  of  life  and  hope  is  gone. 
Now  darkest  blackness  falls  around  o'er  earth; 
And  morn  seems  night,  though  brightly  now  the  sun 
Beams  forth,  as  if  to  make  the  darkness  of 


A  VOYAGE  Of  LIPE.  157 

These  weeping  souls  yet  still  the  more  intense. 
Above  these  bitter  waters  stands  the  throne 
Of  mercy,  ever  beaming  brightest  rays 
For  every  weeping,  bleeding,  stricken  heart. 
And  though  such  hearts  but  seldom  see  its  gleam, 
Yet  now  a  little  ray,  with  kindly  light, 
Beams  through  the  darkness  to  one  stricken  soul 
And  bids  it  hope.      And  now  he  truly  sees 
That  fair  and  lovely  face,  so  cold  in  death, 
Is  not  the  recent  sufferer  of  her  ills 
But  his  fair  bride,  as  fresh  and  beautiful 
As  when  they  first  were  wed. 

He  further  knows 

That  in  her  Father's  House  a  mansion  fair 
Is  now  her  happy  home.     That  there  with  love 
Which  never  dies  she  waits  and  watches  still 
His  coming,  as  in  days  forever  gone. 


YA  01683 

U.C.BERKELEY  LIBRARIES 


